Startled by the call, I quickly pulled myself together and asked, "What's going on?"

"Your sister, your sister she—" Mom hesitated.

"What about her? Another failed suicide attempt or car wreck?" I shot back, my tone dripping with sarcasm.

"Just come to the hospital right away! We need to tell you something important!" she snapped, her voice sharp with impatience.

"Sorry, I've got better things to do," I replied coldly, ready to end the ...