Sissy,

I force myself to make up stories about where your new bruises come from. I love you so much and it kills me to see them upon your face. You fail at trying to keep them hidden, for I still see them when you have forgotten.

The way they jump out at me makes my back and mind twinge with fear. All I think about when it happens are the things worst imaginable: will it be a hospital visit this time or a funeral I will attend?

I love you, but I have some news to say. What you are doing is causing pain and anger; it is a big mistake on your part. We have told you a million too many times. When will you ever learn that there are better out there?

He is all wrong for you. He turns you into a bitter, angry person that cares not even for herself. I don’t get why you like to be treated that way. I don’t understand how two people raised by the same two parents could be so different from one another.

I love you with a fiery passion. I’d jump to save you from anything that brought you harm, whether it be a bullet or another source. I’d do anything to keep you around or anything to save you from anything.

Love forever and always,
Your sister, age 16