“Okay,” she says softly, petting him. “You’re the best dog I’ve ever met.”
Bear promptly sits like the good boy he is, clearly convinced he deserves a medal.
Jake clears his throat.
“I’m going to take him outside for a minute,” he says calmly.
I glance at him, grateful and overwhelmed all at once.
He doesn’t wait for an answer. He just clips the leash on Bear and heads toward the back door, giving us space.
Before he disappears, his eyes flick to mine.
You’ve got this.
Katia stands and turns toward me.
Her smile is still there, but it trembles at the edges.
“Okay,” she says, taking a breath. “Before you start yelling at me or crying or murdering me, can I just say—you look… really good.”
I blink. “Katia—”
“No, seriously,” she insists, her voice warm and teasing. “You look relaxed. Like someone who actually has fun.”
She tilts her head slightly.
“And not like someone living in a constant stress migraine.”
My chest squeezes.
“You’re deflecting,” I whisper.
Her smile flickers. “I know.”
I step closer and take her hands. Her skin is colder than it should be.
“Katia,” I say softly. “Sit down. Please.”
She nods quickly, like she’s relieved I’m giving her an instruction.
I guide her into the living room and she sinks onto the couch, arms wrapped around her middle.
I sit on the coffee table across from her so I’m close without crowding her.
My heart is pounding so hard I can feel it in my throat.
“Where have you been?” I ask carefully. “I’ve been so worried. I— I tried to find you.”
Katia’s eyes lift to mine, glossy but open.
“I know,” she says quietly.
“And I’m sorry,” she adds quickly. “I wasn’t… I wasn’t in a place where I could answer without ruining your life.”
“You can’t ruin my life,” I say, voice cracking. “You’re my sister.”
I squeeze her hands. “What’s going on?”
