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The dots appeared. Then they didn’t. Then they appeared again.

My stomach tightened. He was going to say no, I thought miserably. Finally, Elias replied.

Elias: You want me to meet your sister?

I sat up, running a hand through my hair.

Me: Yeah. I do.

That was the truth. No hesitation.

Another long pause. I imagined Elias frowning down at his phone, second-guessing, overthinking.

Finally, his reply came through.

Elias: If you’re sure.

I grinned so hard my cheeks hurt.

Me: Positive. Don’t worry. She’ll like you.

Elias: That’s not what I’m worried about.

I stared at the words for a long moment, my smile dimming a little. I knew what he meant. Elias wasn’t worried about Addie. He was probably worried about himself, about letting anyone get too close.

I wanted to text back something reassuring, something that would cut through that wall of doubt he carried. But I also knew Elias. Too much reassurance made him retreat.

So instead, I went simple.

Me: Then just bring yourself. That’s all I want.

The dots appeared. Stopped. Appeared again.

Elias: Alright.

I lay back against the couch again, relief flooding me.

Me: Goodnight, Elias.

Elias: Goodnight, Leo.

I set the phone down on my chest and closed my eyes. My bear rumbled inside me, pleased, content. Addie was going to meet him. Elias had said yes.

* * *

Addie always knocked the same way. Three sharp raps, no patience, no waiting. I was still setting out the glasses when it came, echoing through the apartment like a summons.

“Coming!” I called, a little louder than necessary, and shot Elias a quick smile over my shoulder.

Elias sat at the table, shoulders drawn in tight like he was waiting for a verdict.

I wanted to go over and touch him, squeeze his hand, something to ease that nervous frown on his face. However, Addie’s knock came again, louder this time, and I hurried to the door.

When I opened it, there she was, hands full with a bakery bag and her bag slung across her shoulder. Her eyes immediately flicked past me, zeroing in on Elias.

“Oh,” Addie said, stepping inside before I could even greet her. “You didn’t tell me he was older.”

I winced. “Addie…”