Lost Me Gained Regret

"Hey there."

"

"I

When Abby saw me, she flashed a warm, gentle smile my way. "Big sis, we meet again."

She was indeed slightly younger than me, so the "big sis" term wasn't entirely out of place.

But we weren't close, only having met once before.

I had no clue where she got the idea to call me big sis.

Since she was all smiles, I could only respond politely, "Hi there."

Just as Abby was about to say something, Emily tugged me away.

"We've got things to do, no time to waste here."

I nodded at Abby, letting Emily pull me along.

Luke looked at me with those puppy dog eyes, so wide and bright, filled with the innocence of just starting out in the world. "Big sis, was that your friend just now?"

Before I could reply, Emily wrapped an arm around his neck and said, "Why so curious? She's nobody important to you, no need to know too much." Luke obediently nodded, "I'll listen to big sis. If big sis says not to bother, then I won't."Contentt bel0ngs to N0ve/lDrâ/ma.O(r)g!

My head felt itchy.

Feels like I'm growing smarter by the second.

This puppy dog brother and Abby are like two different species.

Emily's tastes might vary, but she wouldn't swing this wildly.

Probably, it's her unresolved issues still nagging at her.

Abby stood there, only turning away when Emily was out of sight.

"Dai, you look a bit pale. Still not feeling well? Maybe you should see a doctor?"

Abby's concern was palpable, her soft tone seemingly capable of soothing all woes.

But it didn't work on Abby.

The memory of her arm around that guy's neck, looking so close, made her feel suffocated. Loosening her tie, she felt an itch in her throat, clenched her fist, and coughed vigorously. Abby quickly offered some water, "Dai, have some warm water."

Abby waved her off, "Have the driver take you home. I've got things to handle."

Abby didn't show any emotion, still

speaking with gentle concern, "If you really feel unwell, don't push

yourself. Go to the hospital. Call me if you need care; I'm always available."

Abby waved again and strode off.

Abby's grip on the cup tightened, her fingertips turning white.

Silently, she ground out two words.

River, Lee.

Emily and I did a round of shopping, and she ended up buying loads of stuff for Mira.

I couldn't stop her; all I could do was sigh in resignation.

Emily draped an arm around my shoulders, "Don't be jealous, you're still my number one."

"Cut it out."

I pushed her away, advising, "Kids grow up, you know. These won't fit in a few days."

"As long as she's worn them."

Emily disagreed, "It's about the experience. Our Mira has to look pretty every single minute."

I was at a loss for words, just

dragging

her away, "I can't be

too long, got serious stuff to

"Ok, ok."

swno

Emily paid up, and Luke, ever the gentleman, carried all the bags.

I wanted to help, but he wouldn't have it.

"Big sis,

handle

w Fohis strong young man

è heavy lifting. Consider it a

. You know how us actors

to stay in shape."

Before I could object, Emily said, "The reason he's here, besides Mr. Shaw, is to help carry bags."

After telling me, she winked at Luke, "I'll treat you to a feast later, to make up for it."

Luke's smile was bright, "Thanks, big sis."