The Face He Left Behind

After the basement, after Robin’s voice faded from the end of the black phone, Finney thought he’d never have to face that kind of pain again. But then Gwen starts dating Ernesto Arellano, Robin’s little brother, all grown up now, and every smile, every laugh, every flicker of familiarity cuts deep.

Finney used to love having Ernesto around back when he’d go to Robin’s house. The kid had been like a shadow to them both, sweet, loud, always tagging along. But now, years later, Ernesto’s face is a reminder of everything Finney lost.

He wants to be happy for his sister. He wants to forgive the world for moving on. But how do you look into the face of the boy who looks so much like the one who died for you… and not break?