“Yeah, it’s me.” Jacob’s voice was calm, deeper than before. He closed the door behind him. “It’s been a while.”
“You look…” Ethan’s grin was slow but wide.
“You look good, man.”
“Feels good,” Jacob said, glancing around. “Five years. I hit rock bottom after I left here.” He scratched his chin, eyes distant.
“But I climbed out. I took some courses and started managing motels. Built myself back up.”
Ethan watched him with quiet pride.
Jacob stepped forward, gaze steady. “I’m not here for money, Ethan. I’m not here for revenge.” He paused.
“I’m here ’cause I understand what you meant that day about me not needing you. I’m ready to be your brother.”
For a moment, Ethan didn’t move. Then he crossed the room, arms outstretched.
Jacob met him halfway. “You did it, man,” Ethan said, his voice thick with pride. “You really did it.”
Jacob patted his back, feeling something in him settle for the first time in a long time.
“Yeah,” he said, swallowing hard. “I did.”
