My brother gave me his kidney without hesitation, calling it an act of love. For months, he was proud of what he’d done. But then something happened, something he wouldn’t talk about. His warmth faded. One day, he looked at me with a pain I couldn’t understand and said, “I wish I never did it.” Not much later, the shocking truth would come to light...
Right after the surgery, my brother Evan was beaming with pride. 'We're connected for life now, sis!' he’d joke, patting his side. His energy was contagious, and I felt more grateful than words could say. Evan visited me daily, and his big smile never wavered. Those months were filled with laughter and gratitude, thinking how amazing it was to have such a loving brother. It seemed like nothing could break our bond.
While I was recovering, Evan was my rock. He’d roll into my room every day, arms overflowing with snacks, magazines, and books. 'You better read this one,' he'd say, tossing me a new novel. 'You’ll love the twist!' Our days were filled with stories, snacks, and constant reassurances that things would get better. Having Evan close made healing easier. His cheerful spirit was just the medicine I needed, and I felt safe and loved.
A few months down the line, I started noticing a change in Evan. His once bright eyes grew dull, and he seemed lost in thought more often. When I asked if everything was alright, he’d just smile weakly and change the subject. It was like watching the sun slowly disappear behind clouds. I couldn’t pinpoint why the shift happened, but it hurt seeing him so unlike himself. Something was clearly bothering him, but he wouldn’t share.
Our chats, once filled with bursting laughter, turned awkward. The silences between us stretched out like never before. I would start a question, and it would trail off into the air, unanswered. 'Evan, something on your mind?' I'd ask, hoping he’d open up. But he'd just nod or give a vague response. Each uneasy pause felt like more than just silence—it was a barrier forming between us. I missed the closeness we had before.
More time passed, and Evan's cheerful self seemed to vanish. His somber gaze replaced the once bright and lively expression I loved. ‘You okay?’ I’d nudge, trying to get through to him. 'Just tired,' he'd mumble back, avoiding eye contact. His presence, though still physically there, felt muted, like he carried a weight too heavy for one person. I couldn’t shake the feeling something significant was going on, and it tore me up inside.