They were chatting about wedding plans, decorating their new villa, and their future together. Their voices floated through the floor like a dull knife, repeatedly twisting and tearing at my heart.
I stood by the window, staring at the roses blooming in the yard.
There was a time when I also pictured myself beside Ulysses. A different version of us, a different future. But now, even the simplest thing—trust—is gone. What was left to hold on to?
It’s better to leave now. While they’re still wrapped up in their happy little bubble. I’ll take whatever dignity I have left, pack up my broken dreams, and slip away quietly from this place that’s hurt me so much.
At least at Royal Ballet School, I can start fresh. No one there knows my past. No one will judge me. I can create something new and better and finally prove myself.
This time, I’ll keep everything—every shred of evidence—safe. No one will ever get the chance to take me down again.
After I hung up with my aunt, I found myself sitting in the rehearsal room, staring blankly.
This space held so many pieces of me.