“Hurting her is the last thing I want to do. I’m dealing with things the only way I can.”

The way Erika was dealing with things the only way she knew how. Why was life so messed up? Why couldn’t things work out for someone, just once? He sighed. “Whatever you and Cassie are doing is none of my business. I shouldn’t have called you out like that.”

“You’re protecting your sister, I get it. That’s what families do—they look out for one another.” Tank tapped his shoulder as he headed for the showers.

Families look out for one another.

An hour later, Reed arrived at Snow Trek Tours, a bell chiming above the door as he entered. Cassie sat at her desk, her head bent over a financial statement. Her blond hair was held back with reindeer antlers and the Christmas tree in the corner of the office was decorated with camping gear, skis and snowshoes. She looked up as he approached. “Hi, how can I... Oh hey.”

“How are you?”

“I’d be better if my older brother would stop ignoring me,” she said with a small smile.

“Yeah. I’m done being a dickhead.” Ever since they were kids, they never let arguments last longer than a few days. They were too close to let disagreements—however big—get in the way of their friendship. He cleared his throat. “I, uh...went to see Dad when I was in Anchorage.”

She took a deep breath. “And?”

He shook his head. “He wasn’t there.”

Her shoulders sagged. “Sorry, Reed. I know you were hoping...”

She didn’t have to finish the sentence.

“So, anyway, I was wondering if you have plans tomorrow night.” He shoved his hands in his pockets and rocked back and forth on his heels.

“Christmas Eve?”

“I hear there’s a ‘drown your holiday sorrows by getting shit-faced at The Drunk Tank’ party if you’re interested.”

She laughed, relief appearing on her face at his attempt at putting the argument behind them. He still had no idea what to do about his newfound knowledge, but he’d get through one thing at a time. They’d get through it as a family.

“Brother, I’ve been attending that party for years. Am I to assume you’re joining me this year?”

“I’ll be there with bells on.” If he was going to drown in holiday heartache this year, at least he’d be in good company.

* * *