I followed my brother into Mom’s study. It was my first time stepping foot in there. Mom, known as Mrs. Brown, a prominent lawyer in Anchorage, had never lost a case.

Seeing Lucas, a smile spread across her face. "Why aren’t you asleep yet? Not used to it?" He shook his head. "Mom, is my sister still working at her old company? I want to visit tomorrow, and don’t forget to get me a phone."

Mom’s expression faltered, and she fell silent for a moment. "Now that you're feeling better, I checked—she’ll be back in a few days."

I stood nearby, a self-deprecating smile crossing my lips. After all these...