Chapter 1: The Unseen Brother

The sun was setting over the rolling hills of the Welsh countryside, casting a warm orange glow over the small village of Doldollei. It was a peaceful evening, with only the occasional chirping of crickets and the distant sound of a car driving down the main road. Inside the Simpson's modest home, the family was bustling about, preparing for dinner. Katherine "Kim" Simpson, a strong-willed and determined 16-year-old, was busy in the kitchen, stirring a pot of steaming vegetables. Her 14-year-old brother, Alex, was sitting at the kitchen table, doing his homework. Their older brother, Luke, who was 20, was in the living room, watching TV. Their mother, Jackie, walked into the kitchen, a warm smile on her face. "Alright, kids, dinner will be ready soon. Alex, have you finished your homework?" Alex nodded, not looking up from his book. "Yeah, Mum, I've finished it." Kim rolled her eyes good-naturedly. "I'm sure it's perfect, Alex. You've always been so meticulous." Alex looked up, a hint of defensiveness in his eyes. "Hey, I can do my homework just fine, thank you very much." Jackie chuckled. "I'm sure you can, dear. Kim, can you set the table?" Kim nodded and began to set the table, while Alex got up to help. Luke walked into the kitchen, stretching his arms over his head. "What's for dinner, Mum?" "Roast chicken with all the trimmings," Jackie replied. "Your favorite." Luke grinned. "Can't wait." As they sat down to eat, the conversation turned to the upcoming school year. Kim was starting her A-levels, while Alex was beginning his GCSEs. Luke was working at the local garage, trying to save up for university. As they ate, Kim couldn't help but feel a sense of excitement and nervousness about the new school year. She had big plans, and she was determined to make them happen. Just as they were finishing dinner, the phone rang. Jackie got up to answer it, and after a brief conversation, she hung up and turned to the family. "That was your Aunt Sharon. She and Uncle Ian are coming over tomorrow for a visit. They're bringing your cousin, Ben, with them." Kim's eyes widened in surprise. "Ben? I hadn't realized he was coming home from uni." Jackie nodded. "Yes, he's taking a break from his studies. I'm sure you'll all have a great time catching up." As they cleared the table and began to wash up, Kim couldn't help but wonder what the visit would bring. She had always gotten on well with Ben, but it had been a while since they'd seen him. Little did she know, this visit would change everything...