A Brother's Knife

GeorgeSteve, what about your family? Your brother? Think about how they'd feel if you went through with this.
Steve flinches, the question clearly hitting a raw nerve.
SteveMy brother, Lucus... I've looked out for him since he was a kid. Since I was thirteen, I was the one who kept him safe.
His voice cracks, sounding dry and worn out.
GeorgeWhat happened that day, Steve? What did you see?
SteveI got home earlier than usual. I saw them through the window... my wife and my brother. They were... together. I didn't need to hear a single word to know what was going on.
GeorgeDid you confront them?
Steve (Bitter smile)No. I couldn't even move. I just stood there feeling like I didn't exist... like I was a ghost in my own life.
GeorgeBut your kid? You still have him.
SteveThat boy was my whole world. I would've died for him.
He looks up, the light completely gone from his eyes.
SteveThen I found out. He isn't mine. He belongs to her and the brother I raised like he was my own son.
GeorgeSo you decided this was the only way out?
SteveIt's the same old story. I don't want to be dead, George. I just can't find a single reason to keep being alive.
George (Softly)I understand why you feel that way. But the truth is, there's another reason to stay—one you haven't seen yet.
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