Cheska, a girl whose heart bore the weight of abandonment, had carried the scars of her past with her throughout her life. The wounds ran deep, originating from the neglect she had endured at the hands of her parents. Their absence had left her with...
Cheska sits on the couch, hugging a pillow, her eyes red from crying.
The doorbell rings, interrupting her thoughts.
She takes a deep breath and slowly rises, making her way to the front door.
Cheska opens the door to reveal Audrey. Audrey's face lights up when she sees Cheska, but her expression quickly softens as she takes in Cheska's disheveled appearance.
"Hey, Cheska. I've been trying to reach you all day. Are you okay?"
Cheska forces a smile, "Hey, Audrey. Yeah, I'm fine. Just having a rough day."
Audrey's eyes narrow, not convinced by Cheska's response.
"You know, I've known you long enough to see through that smile, Cheska. Something's bothering you. Talk to me."
Cheska hesitates for a moment, then sighs, giving in to her friend's persistence.
"It's Gabrielle. I... I can't be around her right now. It's too painful."
Audrey's face softens with understanding. She places a comforting hand on Cheska's shoulder.
"I get it, Cheska. But that's exactly why I'm here. I want to take you away from all of this, just for a little while."
Cheska looks at Audrey, curiosity mixed with hesitation in her eyes.
"Where would we go?"
"Remember that beach house Justin's family owns? It's empty right now, and I've been dying to get away. No distractions, just you and me. We can relax, unwind, and maybe even heal a little with our circle"
Cheska's eyes light up at the thought of an escape, but her mind still lingers on one last concern.
"But what if Gabrielle is there? I don't think I'm ready to face her yet."
Audrey shakes her head reassuringly.
"No worries, Cheska. I promise you, Gabrielle won't be there. It'll just be the us without Gabbie, enjoying some peace and quiet. You deserve a break, and I'll make sure you get it."
Cheska takes a moment to consider Audrey's words, weighing the risks against the opportunity for solace.
"Okay, Audrey. Let's do it. Let's go on that vacation.'
Audrey's face lights up with joy, and she wraps Cheska in a warm embrace.
Cheska returns the hug, feeling a glimmer of hope stirring within her.
"Thank you, Audrey. I really need this."
They break apart, their eyes meeting, filled with a shared understanding and determination to heal.
"We'll get through this together, Cheska. I won't let you face it alone."
Cheska nods, a small but genuine smile gracing her lips.
"Together. That's all I need right now."
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