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“I couldn’t leave the hospital until I knew you were going to be in good hands.” He sniffles. “I hated the part in your letter where you said I made you feel like I didn’t give a shit about you. When you were in the hospital, Gabby and I were trying to have a baby, and she had a few miscarriages. Things were really stressful, and I didn’t know how to juggle everything. You deserved more of my time and attention. Then when you got out of Clearview, we were getting used to having a newborn in the house, and our lives were turned upside down. But things are more stable now. I’d like to rebuild what we had when we were kids. We used to be best friends.”
A tear rolls down my cheek. “I’d love that, Tyler. And I don’t expect you to drop everything in your life for me. You went through some really important grown-up shit, and you had every right to be happy and enjoy it. I just want to be a part of that life too.”
“So do I. Gabby and I were talking after I received your letter, and she said we should take a trip to the shore house this summer. Jenna will be a little older, and traveling shouldn’t be too bad. If you’re okay with that idea, of course. I know it’s your house.”
I clamp my hand over my mouth to muffle my sob. “This house will always be yours too, Ty. I’d love for you guys to come visit. I’m dying to meet my niece.”
“I’m sorry about the baptism. It didn’t feel right without you. You should’ve been there.”
“How was Mom?”
Tyler chuckles. “Over the top, as usual. She asked about you.”
“Oh?”
“She asked if I invited you, and I told her exactly what I told you. She acted surprised, as if I was crazy for thinking she’d cause a scene. Sometimes, I wonder if she acts the way she does on purpose, or if she truly can’t help being like this because she’s delusional.”
“I’ll never be able to understand the inner workings of that woman’s mind.”
“Have you spoken to her since you got out of Clearview?”
“No, but I sent her a letter like I did you. I don’t expect a response, but it felt good sending it.”
“I’m proud of you, Nix. I don’t know that I would’ve been able to do that after the way she treated you. I give you a lot of credit.”
I glance over at James and smile. “I have someone in my life who helped me to realize that I should live my life doing the things I want to do, and if people don’t react the way I want them to, then that’s on them. At least I tried.”
“Wow. That’s some grown-ass woman shit right there. You’re not a little kid anymore.”
I laugh. “I haven’t been one for a long time.”
“You’ll always be my little sister though.” Sincerity saturates his voice. “I’m really glad you sent me that letter, Nix. I’ve been wanting to talk to you, but I didn’t know what to say, or how to start. You’ve always been better at words and feelings than I have. I’ve always looked up to you.”
I choke in disbelief. “I’m sorry, what? You—the great Tyler Bridges—looked up tome?”
“It’s true. You have always embraced who you are. You didn’t try to be anyone else. You had depression, and you were open about it. You didn’t let Mom or anyone else sway you.”
I slump back against the couch and blink up at the ceiling. “I… I don’t even know what to say to that.”
“I admire you, Nix. Dad did too. Mom only paid attention to me because she knew she could control me. I had to unpack all of that in therapy too.”
“I’m proud of you for going.”
“So.” I hear amusement in his voice. “Who is this person in your life? Does my little sister have a boyfriend?”
My cheeks heat as I rest my head on James’s shoulder. “Yes. His name is James.”
“And he’s treating you well?”
I close my eyes. “So well.”
“Good. You deserve all the happiness. I’m so glad you’re doing better than when I last saw you.”
“Me too.”
After Tyler and I say goodbye, I can’t fight the surge of emotion that overcomes me. It feels like a huge weight has been lifted off my shoulders.
“This is because of you, you know.” I press a tender kiss to James’s lips.
