Shattered

Chapter 25

Her screams still echoed in my ears.

Even after I opened my eyes, greeted by the bright morning sun, the pain-filled shrieks still reverberated in my head. I wasn't mad at Chandler for drugging me, I knew that was the better outcome of the situation.

With a yawn, I stretched my arms over my head and sat up, gently smoothing back my hair. It's New Year's Eve, which means I get to go out tonight. Despite the hurt and embarrassment I still felt from last night, there was also excitement. I loved parties; socializing, dancing, drinking. It's always fun. And I'd do my best to make sure tonight is fun, meaning no funny business on my end.

I can handle that for a night, right?

Naive little Jess, just you wait, tonight will be quite the event, you'll see...

Reaching up, I gave my opal a squeeze, reminding myself to keep my head up and stay positive, despite all that had happened in twenty-four hours. Well, all that had happened in the past month.

After a minute or so of quiet tranquility, I pulled myself off the bed, not quite ready to start the day, but unwilling to lay down for another minute. While the room was empty, I quickly paced to the closet, planning to change before Chandler disrupted my peace. I was already dreading seeing Lucas and his smug face, knowing it'd piss me off beyond belief.

Attempting to suppress my forthcoming anger, I gazed upon the racks of clothing, pulling a white long-sleeve top and black jeans. After I was dressed, I brushed my teeth and released my hair from the braid I did last night, gently combing through the soft waves of red hair.

By the time I was finished, the bedroom lock turned, soon opening to reveal Chandler. It was odd for him to lock the door, especially since I hadn't done anything and was sedated throughout the night.

"I was just about to wake you up," he announced once he caught sight of the empty bed and me leaving the bathroom. "Good morning," I greeted, taking a few steps in his direction. I still felt anger towards him as well, since he went from being sweet to being a complete and utter asshole.

"Good morning, beautiful," he answered and reached for my wrist, pulling me into him. Softly, he tilted my chin up, leaning down to press a kiss on my lips. I shuddered with the memory from last night, feeling color rise to my cheeks.

God, I'm stupid.

"What time is it?" I asked when he leaned back, staring off to the side to hide my flushed face. "9:15. I made breakfast, so you can come down and eat." His index finger trailed along my cheek, running over the edge of my jaw.

"Can I see Nakoa first?" With the quietest whisper, I asked, scared of his answer. "Just for a few minutes, please?" Adding quickly, I turned towards him, giving a pleading look. I just had to make sure she was okay.

Who am I kidding? Of course she's not okay, she's far from okay. Still, I needed to see her with my own eyes.

"Three minutes and then I want you downstairs." It's better than nothing, I guess. "Okay," I answered, already making my way towards the door.

Nakoa was alone in the room, seated on the bed with her head in her knees. Her wrists and ankles were marked, as if she was tied up not long before. Slowly, I walked towards her, brushing some of the hair from her face while running a hand over her shoulder, her muscles tensing.

She glanced at me, realizing I wasn't Lucas. The familiar hopeful gleam flashed through her eyes for a split second before she began sobbing uncontrollably, grabbing at my arm to pull me closer. Wrapping her in an embrace, I allowed her to release all her emotions, knowing she needed a comforting person more than anything right now.