Chapter 23: Colorful Changes

*Olivia*

I realized in dismay that tears were starting to build up in my eyes as I stood before my brother, who was trying to appear calm while he clutched his cigarette tightly in his hand.

He lowered the cigarette from his mouth and looked down at me with the eyes of a big brother, warm and protective. “Vivi,” he said slowly, and I recognized the tone. He was going to give me a brotherly lecture. He sighed heavily. “No matter what happens between us, we are family. I will always try and do what is best for you.”

I shook my head. His words only confirmed that he wouldn’t treat me like the adult I was. I also realized that I had changed more than I thought in the last five years.

When I left New York five years ago to go to Spain, I was terrified. I told myself that I was leaving to protect my family, but in reality, I was running away.

I wasn’t that fresh-faced teenager any longer. I had grown and learned to face my fears head-on.