I’m a 28-year-old man, and I have a twin brother. Growing up, we were inseparable. Until recently, I truly believed we still were.

I was always the shy, nerdy one; he was outgoing and athletic, the kind of kid who thrived on sports and attention. Despite our differences, we chose each other. We spent nearly all our time together, and for most of my life, I assumed that bond was unbreakable.

Things shifted when college came around. He stayed in Arizona, while I went to school in Portland. After graduating, I decided to stay there. I fell in love with the city, built a strong group of friends, and found meaningful professional opportunities through internships and work. Even so, I always made the effort to come home—for holidays, birthdays, and important family events. Distance never felt like disconnection to me.

Then my brother announced on Instagram that he and his girlfriend of three years were engaged.