The Hidden Story of My Brother

Something inside me softened instantly.

We spent the afternoon coloring. Clara made grilled cheese sandwiches, and Nick watched us quietly, probably afraid I’d leave and never return.

But I stayed.

Healing What Was Broken

Over the next few weeks, I visited often. What once felt foreign slowly became familiar. Lea began calling me “Auntie A.” Clara shared stories about her baking dreams. Nick seemed happier than he’d been in years.

But secrets don’t stay buried forever.

When Mom Found Out

Mom discovered the truth two months later when she saw a picture of Lea on my phone. I couldn’t bring myself to lie.

When I told her everything, she didn’t yell. She just whispered, “Why didn’t he tell me?” and sat down, devastated.

She didn’t speak to Nick for a week.

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