My brother was 16 when he disappeared. He was always irresponsible, but he had never gone AWOL for longer than a few days. This time, things felt different. We looked for years before losing hope.

My best friend would tell me, “Let go and focus on yourself!” She then unexpectedly found a job and departed. Recently, I paid her a surprise visit. Her color altered. She was not pleased to see me.

I went inside and froze when I discovered my brother’s jacket on the chair. The place also smelled quite familiar—it was my brother’s favorite perfume. My friend appeared flustered. Later, I was horrified to learn that she was actually living with my brother.

They were in love, and she knew my family would not approve of their relationship, so my brother went, and she planned to follow him later, which she did. She informed me they’ve been together for five years and are planning to start a family.

Everything felt like a movie scene. I was relieved my brother was okay, but I couldn’t shake the feeling of betrayal. I informed my parents, but I ultimately decided to cut all relations with him and her.