In a world where loyalty is a dangerous game, kylina finds herself torn between danger and desire. When a forbidden romance with D'Angelo, A mafia leader ignites, the line between love and survival blurs. As she pulls back, her breath heavy with ant...
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The morning sun sliced through my bedroom curtains, and I lay there, staring at the ceiling, my heart pounding with a mix of anticipation and dread. Today was the day I was going back to school-a place that held both memories and nightmares. I took a deep breath, threw off the covers, and swung my legs out of bed. Time to face the music. I stepped into the shower and turned it on, backing up from the shower head. I hadn't washed my hair in a few days, but I was so scared to allow my head to be submerged in the water trickling on my body. After everything that happened to me, I was actually terrified to even come close to water, but in an effort to regain some normalcy, I read up on things that would help me with this fear. I began with brief showers or even just washing my hands or face with bits of water until I got to this point, but I still felt like I was back in that house.
After my shower, I dried myself and got dressed. It was warm out, so I just opted for a thin, ribbed turtleneck cream shirt paired with high-waist jeans that tapered at the ankle and my chunky sneakers. I wanted to feel comfortable but cute, so I threw on some simple jewelry and brushed my hair with some dry shampoo. I grabbed my phone and headed downstairs.
In the kitchen, D'Angelo was waiting with breakfast already prepared. His eyes lit up when he saw me. "Morning, Kylie. Big day, huh?"
I nodded, trying to muster a smile. "Yeah, big day."
He walked over and gave my shoulder a reassuring squeeze. "You'll be great. Remember, you can call me anytime if you need anything."
"Thanks, but. I'll be fine." I grabbed my backpack, filled with the new books and supplies he'd bought for me, and headed out the door.
My car was nowhere to be found, so for the past few days, D'Angelo had assigned a personal driver to me. He's been talking to me about where I need to be, plus he's super cute and nice-my age too.
I got in the back of the Mercedes, back thrown to the side as I greeted the silver-haired boy. "Good morning, Finneas."
"Hey, loca, where have you been?"
I laughed at his choice of greetings; you can probably tell we're huge Twilight fans.
"Y'know, here and there...I hope you're doing well?"
"I always feel much better after seeing your face." He joked.
"Shut up and drive, you idiot." I smiled. He saluted and obliged.
I was grateful for finneas' playful banter on the way to school because it felt like I was entering a warzone. My mind buzzed with memories of the abuse, the isolation, the fear. I tried to focus on the positives. I was reclaiming my life. I should be stronger now.
Walking through the school gates, I felt a thousand eyes on me, whispers starting immediately. I kept my head high, reminding myself that I was here for me, not for them.
I found Gina waiting by my locker, her face lighting up when she saw me. "Hey, Ky! You look great. Ready to take on the day?"
I had texted Gina to let her know my plan for coming back to school and being who she was, was very supportive.
