“Do you want to talk over coffee?” I ask. “Maybe in the break room?” Without hesitation, Willow nods—and her eyes well with tears. Relieved. She’s relieved. There was a chance that I could’ve slammed a door in her face. Told her to hop on a bus back to Maine. I didn’t. I won’t. After truly knowing Ryke, I can’t fathom shutting the door on a sibling. It’s a bond that’s different than a friendship. One that hurts more if it breaks, but when it’s whole, it means everything.
