Chapter One

           “Merry Christmas, Man,” my brother, Todd, said as he walked in my bedroom carrying a breakfast tray. On it was an overflowing plate full of eggs, hash browns, toast, and bacon. There was coffee with plenty of cream and sugar, and a large glass of orange juice. My name was Amanda, but Todd usually called me by my nickname.

           I sat up, rubbing the sleep from my eyes, and smiled. “This is a nice surprise,” I said, taking the tray from him. I couldn’t fit it over my stomach or my thighs, so I placed it on the bed next to me.

           Todd sat down on the edge and picked up a piece of bacon and a slice of toast. “I thought you deserved it after having such a bad week.”

           It had been a terrible week. I was at my wits end with this job. I was ready to throw in the towel.         

  I took a sip of coffee and dug into my meal. “It’s good, thank you.” I said, wiping my mouth with the napkin. “You’re such a good big brother. Always looking out for me.”           He smiled and took another strip of bacon. “That’s what I’m here for.”

           “You want some eggs, or more toast?” I offered my fork.

           “No thanks,&r...