"You can tell me," she said, "You know that I would never tell the others." She sat closer and put her hand over his softly. "You're my favorite brother."

Darius shook his head with a sharp frown. "It was about, my old friend, Hurley's death. I.. I don't even wa t to think about it."

"I am sorry, Darius." She reached out and put a hand on his arm.

Darius patted her hand, "It's ..its ok. I don't want you to think about it. I even try not to."

"I understand." She wondered why it weighed on him at the moment but decided to respect his wishes and let it go. If she had been their sisters, either one, she would have pestered him about it, or bemoaned her own bad luck.

There was a grateful smile as he began to pick at the food again. "Thank you, Pearl." He smiled as he ate slowly.

"Always, Darius." She sat and took a small piece of pie for herself, nibbling upon it.

Darius gave a small nod and smiled towards her, "you're too kind to me."

"Well, you're my brother and I love you." She chuckled softly.

Darius smiled and ruffled her hair as he pressed his cheek to hers. "I love you too!"