"I made my decision."

"I know, just like I know I'm a complete stranger whose opinion probably doesn't matter. But he needs to go. He needs the interaction with others his age, a healthy hobby and the confidence sports and martial arts instill in kids."

The words are damning. They almost hurt to hear.

They infuriate me. Not because Petr is wrong or being obnoxious or sticking his nose in my business. But because someone else noticed that my brother isn't normal, and it's a reminder I'm hurting Todd by denying him the chance to live the life of a teenage boy.

"You can go," I whisper, somewhere between crying and screaming at him. "Please."

"Okay." Petr studies me briefly before standing. "I'll see you tomorrow."

Unable to summon a response, I nod.

I'm failing Todd, and I'm humiliated that it's so apparent to an outsider.




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