CHAPTER 77 – Katie

  I flip the lid of the ice cream tub off and dive my spoon into it as my eyes drift across the park.  Families are scattered about, while the soft laughter of kids floats in the air.  Pride beams from the parents’ faces as they watch their kids scurry around. 

  Why couldn’t I have that?  Just once in my life, I want what everyone else has. 

  My gaze moves to Izzy and Casper, who are playing on the swing.  Casper’s happiness is evident with his big grin, showing off his deep dimples, and his non-stop giggles while Izzy pushes him higher. The image warms my aching heart. 

  I have promised myself long ago I would never let my kids suffer like I did growing up.  My brother is the golden child and I’m just the daughter they never wanted. 

  No matter what I do, I will never be good enough for them.  My brother, on the other hand, can do nothing right, but he was still their perfect child. 

  A lone tear spills over the corner of my eye and slides down my cheek.