The sun had barely risen when Mia tightened her climbing harness and glanced over her shoulder at her younger brother, Leo. His helmet sat crooked on his head, his gloves were too big, and his grin was so wide it threatened to split his face in two. Today wasn’t just any day—it was Leo’s first real climb, and Mia had promised their parents she’d keep him safe. What she hadn’t expected was how much this moment would matter to her.
“Ready?” she asked, tugging the straps on his harness to make sure they were snug.
Leo nodded vigorously. “I’m right behind you, Sis! Just like you said.”
Mia smiled. For years, she’d been the one scrambling up the backyard trees, scaling rock walls, and exploring trails. Leo had always been the kid watching from below, too small, too nervous. But something changed this summer. Maybe he grew taller, or braver, or maybe he was just tired of watching his big sister disappear into the clouds. Either way, here they were—standing at the base of Cedar Ridge, preparing for the kind of climb that would’ve terrified him only months ago.
They started slow. Mia placed her feet carefully, demonstrating each move. Leo followed, sometimes clumsily, sometimes surprisingly well. She could hear him muttering to himself, a nervous commentary that bounced off the rocks.
“This is fine. Totally fine. Mom said don’t look down… so I’m not… definitely not…”
Mia bit back a laugh. “You’re doing great. Keep going. I’m right ahead of you.”
“And I’m right behind you!” he echoed, louder and more confident this time.
Even though she was technically leading, Mia felt Leo’s presence at her back like a steadying force. Every time he struggled, she offered advice. Every time she hesitated, he shouted encouragement. They moved like a team—sister shadow guiding brother, brother pushing sister forward with unexpected determination.
When they reached the midpoint ledge, Leo collapsed onto the rock, panting. “Do people… do this… for fun?”
“Yes,” Mia said, handing him her water bottle. “And you’re doing awesome.”
He took a long drink, then looked up at the ridge above them. “Think I can make it?”
“You’re already halfway.” She nudged his shoulder. “Besides, I’m not letting you quit.”
The second half of the climb was harder. The wind picked up, tugging at their clothes. The rocks grew slicker, the gaps trickier. But something had shifted in Leo—he wasn’t just following anymore. He was climbing on his own terms, with steady hands and careful steps. Mia could hear his breath slow, his movements smoothing out like he’d suddenly found the rhythm.
When they finally reached the top, Leo let out a triumphant yell that echoed through the valley. Mia laughed, breathless, proud, and a little emotional.
