I was just the daughter, a financial burden, while Marlon was the son, the one who would support our parents in their old age.
Gradually, I stopped voicing my desires to Diane and began seeking out Marlon to fulfill them instead.
I'd heard from classmates that the church on the mountain outside town was a place where wishes came true, but it was too far for me to go alone.
So, on my birthday, I begged Marlon to take me there. I wanted to wish for our family to become wealthy, often dreaming that if we had money, maybe Diane would treat me better.
After making my wish, I even asked for a cross for Marlon, hoping it would keep him safe so I could always rely on him for goodies and fun.
But sadly, on our way back down, it got dark and started to rain.
The mountain path became treacherous.
Marlon insisted I walk on the inside for safety, and in trying to protect me, he lost his footing and fell.
By the time they found him, it was already noon the next day.
But what they found was his cold, lifeless body, his face drained of color, clutching the cross he had gained back from me.
It was an accident, but Diane blamed me.