His voice echoed from the past, warm and promising. "When I grow up, I'm going to make a fortune. I'll build you the biggest castle, Hazel. You'll be the happiest princess in the world."

Blood stained my phone screen as trembling fingers tapped out the words. I swallowed the tears. I wouldn't cry. Not now.

I sent Jonathan one last message.

Brother, I'm done waiting. Consider my life payment for whatever I owe you and Valerie. Please, just bury me beside Mom and Dad.

I hit send. My eyelids grew heavy, and the world faded to black.

Beside my lifeless hand, the phone buzzed violently against the floorboards.