Crabapple Blooms Beneath the Bright Moon

Summary

Three years after I was released from prison, I ran into my adoptive brother, Danny, at the hospital.

I was there for my psychiatry appointment. He was carrying a bag from the high-end cosmetic clinic, filled with the signature facial masks his new sister, Isabelle, loved.

When he caught sight of me, thin and worn, a frown creased his brow. “Why didn’t you say anything about being released early?”

My expression was neutral. “You changed your number. I couldn’t reach you.”

He cleared his throat, a flicker of embarrassment in his eyes. “Well, since you’re out, you should come home.”