"It's all right, little sister. You see, I think it's always been this way. I've always felt toward you like a big brother. I don't think I could really have been anything else." Demo spoke quietly.
He liked Theresa, always had. Not as a lover. No, more as the little girl next door than as an attractive and mature young lady. Even now he could not see her other than as the little girl.
"Who is he, Theresa? Are you sure?"
"You know him. Randy. He is so strange and wonderful and I knew when we first met."
He smiled, placing his hand under her chin he lifted it up. "If he ever mistreats you, you let me know. And tell him big brother will beat him to a pulp if he isn't nice to you. Understand?"
She half sobbed, half laughed.
"Yes, big brother."
She hugged him, her arms around his neck, then kissed him on the lips, pressing against him. For a moment they stood thus.
"You know, big brother, I think I could have made you love me - another way. I'm very glad I didn't. I'll always need a big brother."
"I'll be here."