Francis shrugged. She was saying a few things that were hard not to take personally. "That makes him a coward. Doesn't mean he's a terrible person. Some people are weak and we need good, strong people at our side. "

He gestured to her and seemed uncertain. "You love your brother? He loves you. He wants to protect you so he's trying to keep you out so you don't see how scared he's probably been. And he thought lying would save you from a very painful truth. Whatever it is. Sometimes adults stubbornly think only they can come up with answers. But he does need you. And I know you don't know me and don't like you, but I can try to help get him to listen and actually talk to you if you'd like? I saw how he acted last night and I saw some things. If you can try a little harder to talk to him more and be strong. I will do all I can to get him to give in and talk to you. If you will let me." He said though wasn't sure it would work.