Over the weeks, Mr. Weber did become better. And so did the twins. Emotionally.

***

"Hey," Adam said, uncertainty creeping into his voice.

"Hello," Levian said hardly. "What do you want?" He still blamed Adam for not being supportive of him when he was in such a dark phase of life.

"Nothing..." he said a little sheepishly, "Um, how is your father?"

"Father's going to be okay." Levian shrugged, all the hardness suddenly melting away in a puddle that soon evaporated.

"Are you okay?" Adam said, looking straight at him, a concerned look sporting his face.

"If Father is okay, I guess I'll be okay." Levian looked away, blinking away tears.

***

"Livia Weber! Why aren't you at recess?" Mr. Elocksky demanded.

Livia gathered her papers and stood quickly.

"Out! Now! It is a nice day, go out and play!"

Livia went outside. Hanging around by the doorway was her friend, Marjorie.

"Er, Livia, I'm so sorry." Marjorie said.

"For what?" Livia asked,

"For everything." Marjorie said. "I was never there for you. I left you by yourself. It's never easy by yourself."

"Oh, Marjorie, it's okay! We're still friends!" Livia hugged Marjorie, tears of happiness and friendship falling from her eyes.

"I'll never do that again. Not ever!" Marjorie bit her lip."I really don't know. I was just... I was just... I guess, afraid of you."

"Why?" she asked.Livia looked into her friend's eyes and found only guilt.

"Your father, I was scared, Livia." Marjorie's eyes were wet.

"Oh. It's okay though, we're all scared sometimes."