Despite the years of animosity and mistreatment, I found myself torn between conflicting emotions as I read the contents of Mary’s letter. Her desperate plea for help cut through the layers of resentment that had built up over the years, leaving me grappling with a decision that could shape the course of both our lives.

For so long, I had harbored feelings of bitterness and resentment towards Mary and our family. Their constant belittlement and disregard had left deep scars that I had carried with me for years. Yet, despite it all, there was still a part of me that couldn’t turn my back on my own flesh and blood when she was in need.

As I sat alone in my apartment, the weight of Mary’s words pressing down on me, I found myself wrestling with conflicting emotions. On one hand, I couldn’t deny the satisfaction of finally being recognized and acknowledged by my family. But on the other hand, I couldn’t shake the feeling that Mary’s sudden change of heart was nothing more than a ploy to manipulate me once again.

But as the days passed and Mary’s condition continued to deteriorate, I found myself unable to ignore the gnawing sense of guilt that ate away at me. Despite everything, she was still my sister, and the thought of turning my back on her in her time of need was something I couldn’t bear to contemplate.

In the end, I made the decision to set aside my own grievances and reach out to Mary. It wasn’t an easy choice, and I knew that it would come with its own set of challenges and complications. But deep down, I knew that I couldn’t live with myself if I didn’t at least try to help her.

As I picked up the phone and dialed Mary’s number, my heart pounded in my chest with a mixture of apprehension and determination. Whatever lay ahead, I was ready to face it head-on, for better or for worse. After all, she was still my sister, and blood was thicker than water.