Some people say blood is thicker than water. What they don’t tell you is that sometimes, blood can drown you.

I’m Justin, 26, and I’ve spent most of my life watching my parents choose my sister over me. When they skipped my wedding for her, my best man turned their absence into something unforgettable.

Growing up in Millbrook felt like living under a spotlight that never pointed at me. My sister, Casey, six years older, had a talent for stealing attention—often with suspiciously timed meltdowns.

If I scored the winning goal at my basketball game, she’d suddenly develop a stomachache that required urgent care.

When I got accepted to college? Her boyfriend broke up with her that same day. Every milestone I reached—she turned it into her tragedy.

“Justin, you understand, right?” Mom would say, already reaching for her purse. “Your sister needs us right now.”
Dad would clap me on the shoulder like I was a Labrador. “You’re tough, kiddo. You get it.”
I didn’t get it. Not then, not ever.

When I proposed to my girlfriend, Veronica, last spring, I made a decision.

I sat my parents down in their kitchen—the one where I’d eaten so many solo dinners while they ran after Casey’s latest catastrophe.

“I’m getting married in October,” I said. “And I need you to promise me something—don’t let Casey hijack this day.”
Mom laughed, that airy, dismissive giggle. “Oh, Justin, don’t be so dramatic. Of course we’ll be there—it’s your wedding!”

Dad leaned back with his arms crossed. “What’s the big deal? You cut a cake, you dance a little—boom, married!” He laughed like he’d said something wise.

“It’s not about being dramatic, Dad. It’s about you actually showing up. For *me*.”
They exchanged a look—the same tired glance they gave me every time I asked for more than they were willing to give.