10 years ago…

“Evan, Evan!” Emmeline shouted into his ear, startling him from his sleep.”Evan, Happy Birthday! Look, look at what I got you!” She was practically jumping with excitement.

Evan grabbed the pillow nearest to him and wrapped it around his head. “Leave me alone.” he groaned.

She reluctantly stomped out of his room, sulking.  

He slept for perhaps another hour before strolling into the living room, ruffling out his hair.

“So, what’s this you got for me?” Evan asked.

Emmeline beamed at the sight of him, “Here.” She handed him a book. A rather old one by the looks of it. It was worn on the sides yet had a beautiful golden vine riding up the sides of it. 

“An old book? That’s it?” He looked disappointed.

She laughed playfully. “It’s not a book, you idiot.” She shoved his shoulder. “Open it.”

He flipped through the book. “It’s...empty. You gave me an empty book?”

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Emmeline laughed again. “It’s a journal. For you to document your days.”

His face twisted. “Why would I do that?”

She replied surely, “So you can look back at it in the future and bring up memories.” 

“That’s it?”

She turned her attention to the floor. “Also, so you never lose yourself.” She said, barely a whisper. 

“What? Lose myself? What do you mean?” Evan questioned.

Emmeline turned her gaze back up to him, smiling again, “Nothing. Happy birthday Evan!”

He stared at his ‘journal’. “Thanks Emmeline. Really.”

“Of course, anything for my dearest brother.”

There was a moment of silence between them.

Emmeline broke it. “I also arranged to have our picture taken today…”

He tilted his head in question. “Why all of a sudden? And how?”

She punched him lightly. “Don’t ask too many questions.”

“Ok.” 

“So how exactly did you convince someone to take our photo? You do realize it’s illegal if the person doesn’t have a permit.” Evan said when the photographer arrived at their house.

“Oh come on, stop being such a killjoy. You’re going to leave in the morning. Let’s not dwell on the past or present but on the future.” She did a mock salute.

He laughed.

“The photographer said he was ready. Let’s go take the picture.”

“After all, this might be the last time we see each other.” she said jokingly.

“What nonsense are you sputtering again.” Evan said.

“I’m taking the photo.” The photographer said.

“3, 2, 1. Say cheese.”

Evan slung an arm around Emmaline’s shoulder and smiled.