The weight of betrayal hung heavily on Faele’s shoulders as she walked through the familiar streets of Eldridge, her heart aching with confusion and hurt. She had lost not only her parents but now felt the sting of betrayal from those she had trusted most. The laughter and warmth that once surrounded her felt like distant memories, replaced by an overwhelming sense of isolation.
As she wandered aimlessly, Faele found herself at the edge of the park where she and her childhood friend Cathrina used to play. Memories flooded back—carefree days spent climbing trees, riding bikes, and sharing secrets under the old oak tree. In that moment, she longed for the comfort of those simpler times.
With a sudden burst of hope, Faele decided to seek out Cathrina. She pulled out her phone and sent a quick text: *Can we meet at the park? I really need to talk.* Almost instantly, Cathrina replied: *Of course! I’ll be there in 10!*
Faele arrived at their favorite spot, her heart racing with anticipation. The sun was beginning to set, casting a golden glow over the park as she sat on a bench, trying to gather her thoughts. She could hear the distant sound of children playing and laughter echoing through the trees—a stark contrast to the turmoil inside her.
Moments later, Cathrina appeared, her bright smile instantly lifting Faele’s spirits. “Hey! It’s been ages!” she exclaimed as she rushed over to embrace Faele tightly.
“Too long,” Faele replied, feeling a wave of relief washed over her. “I’ve missed you.”
Cathrina pulled back and studied Faele’s face, concern etched across her features. “You look… different. What’s going on?”
Taking a deep breath, Faele decided to let it all out. “Everything is falling apart,” she said, her voice trembling. “I feel so alone since… since everything happened.”
Cathrina’s expression softened as she sat down beside Faele on the bench. “I can’t imagine how hard this must be for you,” she said gently. “But you’re not alone.”
“I thought I had support from Stella and Vince, but…” Faele paused, swallowing hard as tears threatened to spill over. “They betrayed me. They kissed behind my back.”
“What?!” Cathrina exclaimed, eyes wide with shock. “I can’t believe they would do that!”
Faele nodded, feeling the weight of betrayal settle heavily on her chest again. “It hurts so much. I thought they were my friends; I thought they cared.”
“They don’t deserve you,” Cathrina said firmly, placing a comforting hand on Faele’s shoulder. “You deserve better than that.”
“Thank you,” Faele whispered, grateful for Cathrina’s unwavering support. “I just don’t know how to move forward from this.”
“Take it one step at a time,” Cathrina advised softly. “You’re stronger than you think. Remember all those times we faced challenges together? You’ve always come out on top.”
As they reminisced about their childhood adventures—building forts in the backyard and conquering imaginary dragons—Faele felt a flicker of warmth return to her heart. Those moments reminded her that there was still love and friendship in the world.
“I just wish things could go back to how they were,” Faele admitted quietly.
“I know,” Cathrina replied gently. “But sometimes we have to let go of what was in order to embrace what can be.”
Faele looked at Cathrina, feeling a renewed sense of hope amidst the pain. “You’re right,” she said slowly. “Maybe I need to focus on myself for a while—on healing and finding my own path.”
“That’s exactly what you should do,” Cathrina encouraged me with a smile. “And I’ll be here every step of the way.”
As dusk settled over the park, painting the sky in hues of orange and pink, Faele felt lighter than she had in weeks. The bond between her and Cathrina felt stronger than ever—a reminder that even in moments of darkness, there was still light to be found.
“Thank you for being here for me,” Faele said sincerely.
“Always,” Cathrina replied with warmth in her eyes.
In that moment, surrounded by nature and friendship, Faele realized that while betrayal had hurt her deeply, it would not define her journey moving forward. With Cathrina by her side, she felt ready to face whatever challenges lay ahead—one step at a time.
YOU ARE READING
Broken Promise
Teen FictionHaving been fooled by someone to keep holding on to the broken promise. Can sometimes makes you think as an unvaluable being.
