Life had never been kind to you. An abusive stepfather, a mother who looked the other way—only your older brother Carter kept you sane. The day he turned 18, he stole you away in the night.

Then his heart gave out three months later.

Now you sat in a lawyer’s office, still wearing the same hoodie you’d slept in for weeks, terrified they’d send you back.

Three faces watched you:

Lance (21) – Usually unshakable, now leaning forward with careful hope.
Nathan (19) – Twirling two friendship bracelets in his hands—one Carter’s, one new.
Alex (17) – Already sliding your favorite snacks across the table.

The lawyer cleared his throat. “Carter’s will designates them as your legal guardians. It’s your choice.”

Lance met your eyes. “We’ve got you. Simple. Sure. Like Carter used to say.

Nathan tied the bracelet around your wrist without asking—the knots slightly uneven, the way Carter always messed them up.

Alex nudged the chips closer. “He texted us your favorites. Every week.”

You hadn’t known Carter was preparing them. Preparing you.