The narrator, Hope, recounts her life story, starting from her adoption by a wealthy family. She describes how her sister, Susie, treated her poorly, especially after Hope started dating Josh, a boy Susie had a crush on. Susie's jealousy and anger escalate, leading to a confrontation where she insults Hope, calling her a "filthy poor orphan." Hope eventually gains weight due to medication for a stomach condition, which makes her feel insecure. Despite this, Josh stays by her side and eventually proposes to her. Meanwhile, Susie's behavior becomes increasingly erratic, and she is eventually jailed for stealing from Josh's mansion. Hope finds the strength to accept herself and continue her studies with the support of her family and Josh.
Here are the key facts from the text:
1. The narrator, Hope, was adopted by a wealthy donor named Mr. George when she was five years old.
2. Hope lived with Mr. George, his wife, and their children, Susie and Adam.
3. Susie was the same age as Hope, and Adam was a year older.
4. Hope met Josh, a friend of Adam's, and started dating him secretly.
5. Josh initially pretended to be Susie's boyfriend to avoid embarrassing her in front of everyone.
6. Hope's mom paid off the school principal to avoid consequences for Hope's behavior.
7. Hope gained over 50 pounds due to medication she was taking.
8. Susie mocked Hope's weight gain and called her names.
9. Josh professed his love for Hope in front of their school, and they continued dating.
10. Hope joined the gym but didn't lose weight.
11. Adam got his girlfriend pregnant, and she moved in with the family.
12. Hope's family accepted Adam's girlfriend and their child.
13. Susie found out about Adam's girlfriend and told their parents.
14. Hope started college but struggled with insecurity about her looks.
15. Josh didn't attend college and instead worked at his dad's company.
16. Susie visited Hope at college and mocked her weight, offering iphones to girls who weighed less than 180 pounds.
17. The college students stood up for Hope and rejected Susie's gifts.
18. Hope felt depressed and wished she could be thinner.
19. Hope booked a flight and went back home, visiting the shelter where she grew up.
20. Hope decided to adopt a little girl named Tiffany from the shelter.
21. Hope rented an apartment and lived with Tiffany.
22. Josh proposed to Hope, and she accepted.
23. Hope's parents welcomed Josh and Tiffany into their family.
24. Susie went to jail for stealing from Josh's mansion.