"It's okay," he said with assurance as he caressed my head, calming me down. "You're already safe, okay? Don't cry too much. But if you really want to, drink water first."

Even though I was crying, I couldn't help but smile at what he said. He was the same guy four years ago—A brother willing to protect his little gem from the cruelness of the world.

In fact, he really is my brother.

"Mason..."

I pulled away from the hug and stared at him. His eyes were full of love and care—like this the ...