A knock on the door. Who could be visiting us. I rub my eye and open the door. A man stood tall.
“Violet Ashton?” He asks
“May I help you?” I respond in a sarcastic tone.
“I’m from Child Protective Services. I’ve received some complaints from your neighbors,” He explains. My eyes widen as I well up. He hands me a notice.

NOTICE
We have received several complaints regarding: Alcohol usage.
It is in our regards that you: Receive rehabilitation for your situation.
If you do not participate, we: Have reason to repossess your sibling.

There was a date and time to go to the rehab session. I broke down in tears and the man shut the door. I ran to my room and nearly cried the whole day. Five hours pass and I finally calm down. I get up to clean the house. I throw out every empty wine bottle. I look at my wine cabinet and shudder. I walk to Nathan’s room and go inside without knocking.
“Nathan?” I sigh. “I’m sorry for today. I’ll make it up to you. How about I got to Backyard Burgers and get some takeout. Does that sound good?”
“Ever heard of knocking?” He replies sarcastically. I look down disappointed.
“I know. I’m sorry. It’s just been a really stressful day for us both. I promise I will make it up to you,” I beg.
Nathan begins, “You always say that. They never do. I just want my sister. Is that too hard to ask?” I nearly broke down in front of him. I had to think positive. I head over to his bed and I sit next to him.
“I know I’ve been a horrible sister and I never thought about how you feel. I promise I’ll cut off the drinking. Hell I’ll buy a padlock for the cabinet if you want me to. Just no I will do anything to support us. When I start that cafe up things will turn out for the better.”
I wipe the tear that rolled down his cheek. I wanted to cry with him. I tell him I’m going to get his favorite burger. He doesn’t respond. I exit the room saying I love him. I get in my car still a bit hungover. I turn on the ignition and drive to Backyard Burgers. When I order I scramble through my wallet for loose change. I was off by a nickel but thankfully the cashier let me off.
I return home and Nathan get’s his burger. As he tries to go to his room I stop him.
“Let’s eat together for once. Please?” I ask him kindly. He sighs and stumbles over to the table. I try to cheer him up but he barely speaks. It was a quiet dinner. Nathan finishes his burger and rushes off to his room.
“Love yo-” I try to say before I hear the door slam. I want to make things right for me and Nathan. Just how mom and dad wanted.