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“We’re all we have,” she whispered.

My heart ached until I was sure it would break open. I enfolded her in my arms and held her tight. Would it be the last time I ever hugged my sister?

Fence and Miles came in, followed by Cash. I could tell by the looks on their faces that they all knew.

“You realize you can’t tell anybody in your world about what happened here,” Miles explained.

“I know.”

“They can’t even know where Jasmine is,” Fence added. “Or that you were with her.”

“Believe me. I get it.” She let go and ran a hand under both eyes to catch the tears which didn’t get the chance to reach my shoulder. “I’ve already considered what I would have to do once it was time to go. I think it will be best to say I looked for Jasmine and never found her.”

I shuddered.

Pierce’s arm slid around my shoulders.

“I guess that makes the most sense,” I agreed in a soft voice. “Pretend I died. You were staying in the mountains while looking for me, but you eventually had to give up hope. It’s not as if we could call the police to search for me. There wouldn’t be a record anywhere of my accident or disappearance. It’s the easiest solution—if you think you can pull it off.”

“It’s a matter of life or death for all of us,” she reminded me. “I always perform best under pressure.”

“That’s true. You saved my life when I was at death’s door.”

“Don’t remind me.” She hugged me again, and I fought back the grief crushing my chest.

It was bad enough without me showing how tough it was to lose her. I made it a point to smile when I leaned away from her.

“It’s all going to be fine. You’re going to be fine.”

“I know. And so will you.” Her chin quivered just the same.

So did mine.

I couldn’t help but look at Pierce again. He was frowning as he watched us.

He felt sorry for us, I could feel it.

“Isn’t there any way I could still have her in my life?” I whispered, hoping against hope.

All he did was look at the rest of his family with a deep sigh.