On our way home, Renata touched my newly shaved hair and spoke like she was warning me, “Rein, you must never steal again. Let this be you first and last lesson.”
I clenched my fingers at that.
For the past three years, I asked the guards many times to send her messages. I tried telling her that I never stole Leonhart's things. That fake son framed me.
Sadly, my own sister Renata never believed me.
So this time, I didn’t even bother to explain and simply nodded obediently. “I know,” I said agreeing.
My sister smiled with satisfaction and drove me home.
As soon as the door opened colorful ribbons exploded into the air. The fake son Leonhart, whom I hadn’t seen for three years, held a party popper and smiled brightly.
“Brother, welcome home!” He acted perfectly, as if overflowing with affection. It wasn't like the jealous face he had when he accused me of stealing.
I ignored him, brushing past his shoulder as I walked further inside home.
Leonhart's smile stiffened and he looked at my sister awkwardly for help. “Why isn’t he talking to me? Is he still mad at me?”
My sister patted his head lovingly. “Rein just got out, Leon. He’s just not used to this yet. It’s not your fault.”
***
I was already in my room, pulling open the drawer under the bed. Seeing my father’s old photos and his ring still there, I finally relaxed.
My sister stood at the door and called softly. “Rein, come eat with us. You look so much thinner… I can see your ribs.”
I closed the drawer and followed her out.
During dinner, Leon chatted casually before looking at me with mischief.
“Brother, what was prison like from the inside? I heard it was very messy. Is that true?” Leonhart asked.
“It wasn’t messy. Every day I could read books and newspapers and after dinner I went back to my room,” I replied.
“Oh… that sounds better than I imagined. Not as tough as I thought.” As he said that, a small look of disappointment flashed in Leonhart’s eyes.
My sister peeled a shrimp for me and said with a gentle smile, “Now that you’re out, don’t talk about that place anymore. Treat it as an experience and let it go.”
Leonhart’s eyes darkened and he became quiet afterwards.
After a moment, he suddenly remembered something and ran to his bedroom. He came back holding a beautiful little box. “Brother, this is a gift I prepared for you. Congratulations on getting out of prison!”