Chapter 24

Kerrick wasn't beside me when I woke up, still physically and mentally aching. I sat on the edge of the bed, watching my tears make small, damp spots on the carpet by my feet as they slipped down my face.

My eyes were swollen from crying all night and my back was stiff but I was able to sit up straight enough, even though I had a little difficulty at first. I pulled myself on my feet slowly, my legs cramping a bit but I carried on anyway. I went to the bathroom and splashed water on my face then looked in the mirror before grimacing when I saw just how drained I look. A ghost of my former self.

I squeezed my eyes shut and saw Kerrick's uncaring face, my knees buckled and I felt so angry, weak, and frustrated, I wanted to smash my hand in the mirror but I pulled myself together. After a moment, I finally made my way downstairs, my steps crooked yet steady. I looked around the room for Kerrick but only found his desk scattered with papers before I realized he was gone. I stared at my fe