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Marcela had just gotten home with Ann. It was close to dinnertime since they’d gone to a movie together. Saying Ann wasn’t tired would be an understatement, even staying still, which didn’t take much effort, felt exhausting.
Marcela gently placed her on the rocking chair.
“I’ll see you later, Ann. Make sure to watch over them,” she smiled at the doll, skipping out the door as it softly closed behind her.
The others became still, itching to bombard Ann with questions. She zoned out more than usual, her smile forced as she tried to answer their prying voices.
Andy watched her skeptically. Something didn’t feel right.
“Ann! I actually need your help with something!” he shouted over the crowd.
Everyone paused. Ann turned toward her brother with a small, practiced smile.
“Sure, Andy. Sorry to cut this short, everyone, but I’ll be happy to share my adventure tomorrow.”
She parted from the group, following Andy near the dollhouse.
“So, what did you need help with?” she asked, still wearing that same forced smile.
“Nothing really. I can just tell you’re tired, Annie,” he said, looking at her with concern.
Ann paused, then glanced down with a frown. “It’s okay, Andy. I’m fine,” she said, trailing off.
“You’re not fooling me. Please tell me what’s wrong, Ann. I won’t judge you.”
He gently placed a doll hand on her shoulder.
Ann shuddered a little, tensing up, but nodded as her throat tightened. Andy wrapped his arms around her in a gentle hug.
“It’s okay if you don’t want to talk about it,” he whispered reassuringly, “but I want you to know I’m here for you. Always.”
That was what broke her. She clutched his back, holding onto something soft but solid, something real. Her embrace tightened. She was afraid if she let go, he might disappear.
Her candy heart felt even more sullen.
“I-I’m so sorry,” she stammered, tears staining her normally rosy cheeks. “I didn’t want you to see me like this.”
Andy rubbed slow circles on her back, his own heart aching.
“It’s okay to be vulnerable. I know it’s hard,” he said softly.
“I don’t know why I’m so u-upset,” she whimpered.
“Take your time,” he said gently.
“I… I know why,” she admitted, her voice cracking.
“I guess I’m just tired. I don’t always like being the caretaker. The one in charge. While I was with Marcela today… I saw her mom break down. Something about it reminded me of myself...”
She wiped the tears trickling down her cheeks.
“Oh, Ann. I’m sorry you feel that way,” Andy said, still hugging her. “But you don’t always have to be in charge. I can help when you’re feeling down.”
Ann froze, thinking: I don’t deserve a brother this sweet.
“I really wouldn’t want to trouble you…” she whispered.
“It’s no big effort for a strong and terrific boy such as myself!” he grinned, easing the hug just enough to look her in the eyes. His expression was earnest.
Ann smiled, genuinely this time.
“Thank you, Andy. For everything. You’re the sweetest brother I could ever ask for.”
She hugged him again, this time warmly. Both of them smiled in the embrace, thankful to have each other.
“Just remember you’re important, Annie. I don’t say it enough, but I’m really grateful for all your kindness and support,” he said, a bit shy but from the heart.
Her candy heart felt a little less heavy.
“Thank you, Andy,” she whispered, a happy tear slipping down as she rested her head on his cotton shoulder.