"That guy," Max stops herself from saying is, and makes sure to shift to, "was my stepbrother, Billy." Which might explain the darkness that surrounds Max when they discuss siblings.

She shrugs to the family question. "My mom. I'm living with her, but she's working two jobs right now. Not sure where my dad is. He's hard to get a hold of."

Max is grateful for the topic change.

"Yeah. If we don't at least go sledding while we're here that's a waste of snow."