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“ Come onnn , Carlito,” I beg my brother, all but getting on my knees.

I’m filled with restless energy, the need to do something reckless taking over, causing me to pace.

“This is what we’ve been waiting for all these years.

This is our big moment! Tomorrow, we get on a flight out of here and start living our dreams.”

“ Si, hermano. And I don’t want to die before I get to live out those dreams, so my answer is no ,” he says with a huff. “And you do realise that I am the older brother? Stop calling me Carlito, and respect your elders.” He scoffs.

“You’re seven centimetres shorter than I am; therefore, you are Carlito .

And I do respect my elders! Just this once, viví un poco !

” I’m flat-out begging now, and if I’m being honest, it’s a little embarrassing.

I promised Carlos and our parents that I’d give up seeking adrenaline rushes once we move to Embershire and start playing football at the college level, but that’s not until tomorrow and I intend to use every second of my freedom.

“I am living, Rafa. Cut it out.” He swats me away, rolling his eyes as he stomps toward the living room.

“I swear, this is the last thing on my list! After this, I promise not to do any more thrill-seeking. I’ll give you anything you want, Carlos. Please do this for me.”

“Will you shut up if I agree?” he asks, his voice gruff as he throws his hands up in defeated annoyance.

“Yes!”

“Then fine , let’s go before I change my mind.”

If I’d have known how this night would end, I’d have never pressured him to take the leap with me.

Fútbol. Uni. All of our shared dreams. Washed away with any semblance of my will to live.