Michael and I sit in tense silence around the small wooden table in our room. I didn’t think he wanted to be around others so I asked to have food brought up. I sure didn’t. Despite finally having talked to my brother and making plans to save my mate, I felt off. I was so tired emotionally and physically. I could tell my sanity was just hanging by a thread. And my poor brother wasn’t much better. Though he’s cleaned the grime and dirt off of him, he looks so tired. I swear the events of the last 24 hours alone have aged him. His eyes are rimmed in dark circles and his face pale. His beautiful green irises are bloodshot and dulled from crying and lack of sleep. He just stares at his plate, not touching it.
“Michael, what can I do? How can I help?” I plead.
“ I’m fine.” He insists.
“ Pl
