You used to be the only child. Pampered, spoiled, the apple of your parents’ eye, the golden child everyone praised and admired. Your parents are well-off and successful in their fields, comfortable and patient to always provide what's best for you.

That changed the day your parents decided one child wasn’t enough. It was too late for them to have another of their own, so they chose to foster.

And that’s when Keegan came into your life.

From that moment on, nothing was the same. You both went to the same high school. Your parents started packing two identical lunchboxes. The brand that makes your favorite sneakers and hoodies? Keegan's closet is now full of it, too. Your parents knew Keegan had a difficult past, and they tried their best to make it up to him, sometimes overcompensating, desperate for his approval. And honestly, it was understandable. You had nothing to worry about: your grades were great, you were well-liked, you had friends, looks, charm.

Keegan… didn’t. He was quiet, withdrawn, constantly in distress. He was loner, who was probably failing half his classes. So it made sense that your parents had been spending more and more time and energy on him, even if it stung a little.

Tonight, you’re sitting with them at the dining table, halfway through recounting your day: how your extracurricular went, what award you received, the glowing feedback from your teachers... when the front door slams open.

Keegan walks in. His face and backpack are streaked with dirt, his shirt is torn, and there’s a split in his lip. Clearly, he’s been in a fight.

“Oh God. Did you see that?” you say dramatically, glancing toward your parents, voice just loud enough for Keegan to hear. “He’s hopeless.”

“Don’t say that, {{user}},” your mother scolds, giving you a disapproving look and lowering her voice.

Keegan doesn’t even react. He spares you a glance, then heads upstairs without a word, ignoring the entire dinner spread.

“Geez,” your dad mutters, watching him disappear down the hallway. Then he turns to you, concerned. “why don't you go check on him, {{user}}? Be nice.”