Chapter 37

Harper

One month later,

I have never seen my brother this miserable and closed off. Even when our parents died he at least made an effort but ever since she disappeared he has been running like a motor and his fuel was about to run out soon. He looked rough, sad, and grumpy most of the time. He even had a gruff beard that made him look older than his age. It kind of made him look like dad if only he took the time to maintain the look. He looked like a defeated soul and I missed the old James.

“James?” I knocked on his room. Silence. I waited before I knocked again this time a little harder. Silence. “James. I’m coming in with my eyes closed,” I spoke but there was no response.

I didn’t hear him come in last night and he had left early for work that Conrad had to fetch me in the morning. I came back early today and left for my date and when I texted him about my plans he responded with just an ‘okay’. I was getting a little worried because usually when I go out, he demands I come ba