"It's okay, I understand." Her words are almost swallowed by the sound of the sea, yet their intensity weakens my muscles.
Before me stands my little sister, ready to sacrifice herself for me. Not because she recognizes what a coward I am but because she loves the coward in me.
This is not right. I can't do this to her.
Agitated, I run my hand through my hair. "That's kind of you," I reply, my voice hoarse, but then I gather all the courage I have left. "But it's not necessary. I'll stay."
Matteo will have to wait, so will my career. I have to deal with this here, and there is a way I can make it work.
I'll build the walls around my heart even higher. That way, I'll survive the time at the estate. And her proximity as well.
Abruptly, she lifts her gaze, a single tear rolling down her cheek. "Thank you."
She says no more, and it's not necessary. Because I immediately understand where this gratitude comes from—deep inside her, where both of us carry the same wound. Her muscles give way, and she sinks into my arms. I do what I've always been responsible for as her big brother.
I’m there for her.
