Jiang Yue tightened her grip on Jiang Xiu's hand. Her voice was steady but soft.
"You're not a burden, Xiao Xiu."
Jiang Xiu's eyes remained closed, but her lips trembled.
"You're my sister," Jiang Yue continued. "That means I'll always be here for you—not because I have to, but because I want to."
A tear slid down Jiang Xiu's cheek.
Jiang Yue's voice was soft but firm. "Trying and facing setbacks doesn't make you weak. It makes you human."
Jiang Xiu turned her head slightly, finally meeting Jiang Yue's eyes. "But I wanted to make you proud. Instead, I just added to your burdens."
Jiang Yue shook her head gently. "You don't need to prove anything to me."
Jiang Xiu pressed her lips together as she look down.
Jiang Yue noticed the doubt lingering in her sister's eyes. Her voice softened, her words deliberate.
