"Your brother is going to be okay," she said softly. "I promise you." Ethan nodded, holding onto her words like they were something solid.
Nathan gave a faint smile. Weak. But still there. Ruby's breath caught. She missed him.
Not just him being here, but him being him. The loud laughter. The running feet. The stubborn little grin when he got into trouble. Now. He was quiet. And it scared her more than anything.
Her eyes burned slightly. She blinked quickly, trying to steady herself. Her gaze dropped. To her hand. The ring. Still there. Simple, but not ordinary. Then… The locket was resting against her chest.
Something about both of them felt heavier tonight. Not just objects. Not just memories she couldn't reach. Value. The thought came quietly. But clearly.
If they had to stay longer… If Nathan needed surgery… If money stood in the way. Her fingers curled slightly. I can sell them. The idea didn't hurt the way it should have. That alone made her uneasy.
