Only Temporary by Nicole Dykes

Kellan
She’s gone. And I don’t care. At least that’s what I tell myself, but she also left me with a really big mess to clean up. My siblings hate me. As they should. I may be twenty-four, but no part of me feels up to the task of taking care of my four younger siblings. I barely have my life under control, but it doesn’t matter now. I have temporary custody, and I’m going to do everything I can to make sure it’s not only permanent, but also the best thing for these kids.

Phillip
I haven’t been a social worker long, but I already know, without a doubt, this case has the ability to break me. Four minors left with their oldest brother—a brother still fighting with addiction and so much bitterness, it’s stifling. But I won’t give up on them like the rest of society. No matter what, I’m going to find a way to make sure this arrangement isn’t merely temporary—I just need to make sure I don’t lose my head or my heart in the process.