one hundred and twenty nine

I knocked on Michael's door, concern etched on my face. It had been weeks since the Echo Crystal incident, and I hadn't seen my brother. The door swung open, revealing Michael's tired eyes.

"Sandra, what brings you here?" he asked, ushering me in.

"I was worried about you," I replied, scanning his apartment. "You've been distant lately."

Michael sighed, rubbing his temples. "I've had a lot on my plate."

I noticed the dark circles under his eyes and the weight loss. "Is everything okay?"

"It's complicated," he said evasively.

I knew better than to push. Instead, I changed the subject. "I have news."

Michael raised an eyebrow. "What is it?"

"I've found my mate," I announced, excitement bubbling inside.

Michael's expression transformed from fatigue to surprise. "That's amazing! Who is he?"

"Anderson," I replied, a smile spreading across my face.

But Michael's expression darkened. "Anderson? As in, Vincent's cousin?"

My heart sank. I knew this wouldn't go over well. "Yes."

Michael's voice