My throat goes tight.
Because I don’t need an introduction.
I already know.
“Katia,” I say quietly.
Her eyes widen just slightly, like she’s surprised I know her name.
Behind me, I hear Talia’s footsteps in the hallway.
And then her voice, sharp with disbelief.
“Katia?”
24
TALIA
Rehab
For a second, I’m convinced I’m hallucinating.
“Katia?” My voice cracks on her name.
I move before I can think.
I push past Jake and step onto the porch, and then I’m wrapping my arms around my sister.
“Katia,” I whisper into her hair, and the smell of her hits me all at once.
I squeeze tighter, like if I hold on hard enough I can keep her here.
“You’re here,” I say, pulling back just enough to look at her face. “You’re really here.”
Katia gives me this wobbly smile that looks like it’s trying its best.
“Hi,” she says, voice bright in that forced, brave way. “Surprise. I know. Ten out of ten entrance.”
My throat tightens instantly.
Even with the shadows under her eyes and the too-thinness of her cheeks, she’s trying to make me laugh so I won’t cry.
Jake’s presence is a solid weight beside us, quiet and steady.
“Come inside,” I say quickly, stepping back and holding the door open wider. “Please. Come in.”
Katia walks in and is immediately greeted by Bear, his tail wagging so hard his whole body wiggles. He looks up at her like she’s the most important person in the world.
Katia’s face softens instantly.
“Oh my God,” she whispers, and there’s real warmth in her voice now. “You have a dog?”
“He’s Jake’s,” I explain.
Katia crouches down. Bear sniffs her fingers with solemn focus, then gives her a single approving lick.
Katia lets out a startled laugh.
