Antolena's heart still fluttered from Alex's unspoken words.
Their connection deepened, a sense of belonging she'd never known.
But as they walked to school, reality intruded.
Ryan's angry face appeared in her mind.
"Antolena, we need to talk," he said, his voice cold.
Antolena's stomach twisted.
"Dad, what's going on?"
Ryan's eyes avoided hers.
"Your mom and I... we're separating."
The words cut like a knife.
Antolena felt her world crumbling.
"No, Dad. Please don't say that."
Ryan's expression softened.
"I'm sorry, kiddo. We've tried."
Tears streamed down Antolena's face.
Alex appeared beside her, his hand wrapping around hers.
"I'm here," he whispered.
Antolena's gaze met Alex's, a lifeline in the chaos.
As they stood there, the truth unraveled:
Her parents' love had been a facade.
But Alex's love was real.
And in that moment, Antolena chose:
To let go of the past.
To face the future.
With Alex by her side.
YOU ARE READING
Beyond The Mask
Short StoryWhen Antolena's world shatters with her parents' separation, she must navigate the complexities of love, family, and identity. Behind the mask of perfection, she hides her pain. But when Alex enters her life, she's forced to confront her emotions an...
