My parents forced me to cook and clean all weekend for my sister’s party with 50 guests.

“I’m not going back,” I said.

She looked up. “I know.”

“I’m not helping Mom manage her feelings.”

“I know.”

“And I’m not becoming your emergency plan.”

Madison’s eyes reddened, but she nodded again. “I’m not asking that.”

“Then what are you asking?”

She took a breath. “I’m asking whether someday we could be sisters without you being responsible for me.”

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