Death of Their sister

I look down at my necklace. It is beautiful, a golden swirl of metal keeping the beautiful translucent jewel in place. I look back at him. He's still sifting through the necklaces.He sighs. "Over the years, I've gradually gotten them returned. First Gentle Raven's…then my mother's and Snow flower, and now white Lion's. I thought foolishly that a part of their souls would be kept in the topaz even after they left the tangible world, that I could keep them with me still." He buries his head in his hands. "I lose everyone that I love."

I still clutch the little jewel around my neck like it is my lifeline. Tears sparkle in my eyes. "I'm so sorry," I whisper. "If you want to cry, I'll…"

He whips around with fire in his eyes. "You want me to cry. You asked me that same question earlier, even when my sister is alive. Do you want me to feel more pain than I already have?"

I jump a little at his tone of voice. I breathe a sigh.

"Sometimes it's best to let it all go."

His face is twisted in ago