She stiffened. “I don’t know. I guess I have to make a profile, and then try sending her a message?” She fumbled for the device, skimming the page again. “It doesn’t say what to do next.” Her eyes fluttered. “What am I going to say? How much should I tell her?”
I’ve pictured myself finding my sister for so long, and now I don’t know what to do.
“Breathe, Frankie, breathe.” Charlie cupped her cheeks. “Let’s get some food into you while the information sinks in, then you’ll figure out what’s next. I’m guessing you may even want to call your dad. Does that sound okay?”
Frankie nodded.
It was at times like these she counted herself lucky that she had such an amazing man to watch out for her. Although they’d only been dating and living together for a short time, it often felt as if they were more like an old married couple.
We’re a pair team in every sense of the word. On ice and off.
* * *
Dear BalletGirl13,
Well, this is awkward. I’m not even sure what to type. My boyfriend told me to just talk on paper, so here it goes.
Hi. My name is Francesca, but everybody calls me Frankie. I’ve always known I was adopted, but until a few months ago, I never knew that I had an older sister.
Since then, I’ve thought about you constantly. I’d really hoped that we’d be able to meet one day, but I wasn’t sure if it would ever happen since our adoptions were both closed. To my shock and excitement, I was wrong. I got the email today confirming we are close relatives.
I know that we could be first cousins, but I know in my heart that you’re the sister I’ve always had and am just learning about.
I have so many questions, but for now, I’ll try and keep this short and sweet.
A little about me . . . I’m twenty-seven, I live in California with my wonderful boyfriend, I’m a figure skater, and I like Hawaiian pizza.
I hope I haven’t scared you off, and I also hope that you’ll reply soon.
Best,
Frankie aka TripleLoopLover
* * *
Dear Frankie,
Oh my goodness, oh my goodness. Hello! I’m sorry it’s taken me a full week to respond to you, but I was in shock. I needed some time to process the fact that I have a sister! Like you, I knew from a young age that I was adopted, but nobody ever mentioned a sibling!
I joined the DNA site hoping to find out a little more information about my biological parents, but this is so much better than I ever could have imagined.
You said you’re twenty-seven? I just turned thirty-one. So that means I’m the older sibling and we must be about three or four years apart depending on when your birthday falls.
I’m sure you’re curious, so here is a little about me . . . I’ve been married for just over four years to a witty and dry-humored Brit. We live in London with a spoiled English springer spaniel. I’m rather jealous that you’re a figure skater! I can’t skate to save my life, but I did pursue a career that is non-traditional—I’m a ballerina.
Would you be comfortable speaking over the phone or via video chat with me? I’d love to get to know you better, but there are a few things about my life that I’d rather not share over the internet.
Best,
Clara
* * *
Dear Clara,
You’re a ballerina and live in London? I’ve hit the sister jackpot!
Please let me know when it would be convenient to talk. I’m available at any time. My number is (559)-555-2300.
