Secrets of the Solomons

4. Fiona:

*30th September,2023*

I attended school as normal. It had been days since that incident took place at home. Mom was right. I was no better than Father. I was no better than him. I was so focused on being nothing like him that I made the mistake of being exactly like him. Greedy and hungry for power. I am my father's daughter.

I drove to school. I got out of the car. The whispers around me never stopped. It only got worse. So worse. Now I'd hear whispers in my head. Whispers of my father. Whispers of my brother. They were all telling me to be as I was. Pathetic and helpless. Maybe that is where I am right now.

But maybe, just maybe, I can change. I can break free from the cycle of my family's mistakes and create my own path towards redemption. Or maybe I am hopeless. But I won't know unless I try. And so, with determination in my heart, I walked into school ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead.

As I make my way towards class, I see my group of friends. I smile and head towards them. Only to be met with concerned looks and whispers. Maybe they can see the struggle in my eyes and the weight of my family's past on my shoulders. But instead of turning away, they offer their support and encouragement. And in that moment, I realize that maybe, just maybe, I am not as alone as I thought.

Izzy speaks out, "Morning, sweetie pie. How are you feeling today?" I take a deep breath, grateful for their presence, and reply, "I'm doing okay; thanks for asking." Riley repeatedly speaks words of reassurance: "We're here for you no matter what. You don't have to face this alone." Their unwavering support gives me the strength to face the challenges ahead with a renewed sense of hope.

Sally, however, seems conflicted. She hesitates for a moment before finally speaking up, "I may not fully understand what you're going through, but I want you to know that I care about you and I'm here for you." Her honesty and vulnerability touch my heart, reminding me that even in moments of uncertainty, there are people who genuinely care. "I wasn't sure you needed us after that day. Honestly, it feels like you changed. I don't know if it's for the better or for the worse, but sometimes you scare me."

Sally's words weigh heavily on my mind as I reflect on the impact of my recent struggles. It's clear that my behavior has affected those around me, and I realize the importance of seeking support and communicating openly with loved ones during difficult times.

"Sally, I am sorry. To all of you, I am sorry. I admit I have not been on my best behavior these days. I don't know if I've changed for the better or for the worse. But I hope it is for the better. I, too, can't recognize myself when I look in the mirror. I am sorry for scaring you all. I promise to be on my best behavior. As much as it hurts me to hear Sally say this, it's true. Everything is true. But seeing you three by my side makes me feel invincible. Seeing you all. You all are like my second family. I will always need you by my side. Promise me you'll never leave me alone." "I promise," Sally said, tears welling up in her eyes. "We'll always be here for you, no matter what."