At that moment, I realized something.
Robert's earlier questions and his reaction upon hearing I had a boyfriend clearly showed that he was jealous.
He probably thought I had other close male friends, so he was upset.
Although Robert and I weren't biological siblings, we grew up together and were closer than real siblings. To him, I was a very important person.
After Robert washed his hands and came out, I patted his shoulder and forced a particularly kind smile.
"Robert, is there any New Year's gift you want? I’ll take you shopping."
Robert was silent for a while. "I'm three years younger than you, not three years old."
Alright, my attempt to mend our sibling relationship failed.
"Have you ever thought that maybe Robert doesn't see you as just a sister?"
Taking advantage of my mom going out to play poker, I hung out with my best friend Madison, whom I hadn't seen in two years.
The two of us were having a feast at a barbecue restaurant, chatting about recent events. I happened to be troubled by the matter with Robert, so I thought I'd get Madison's opinion.
Unexpectedly, her first words shocked me.
"Don't question the nature of our relationship! Robert and I practically grew up together, and he has called me sister since he could speak. I don’t see him in that way."
"Sure, sure." Madison grabbed a skewer of meat. "Growing up together means childhood sweethearts to other people, but to you, it's sibling affection.
"Besides, you may not have feelings for him, but can you guarantee he sees you the same way?
"He went to your university and your new address to see you. Do you have any other 'good little brother' who would do that? I'm telling you, Liana, you're blind as a bat."
Madison smacked her lips, still unsatisfied, and grabbed another skewer of meat. "Let me guess, are you thinking now that Robert doesn’t know what he’s doing? You two are only three years apart, so what's wrong with going out with him?"
"I still have a boyfriend."
"I've never liked that man. Look at his face, and you can tell he's no good!"
Madison grabbed my hand, her mouth greasy and shiny. "I’m a cougar relationship advocate. Go, girl! Be brave!"
I sighed.
Just when I was tossing and turning, not knowing how to face Robert, I received a message from Wilson. "Liana, let's go to the Hamptons next week."