Confrontations

Flame leaned against the cold bathroom wall, her heart racing. She closed her eyes, trying to block out the warmth of Mr. Crown’s embrace and the sensation of his lips against hers.

"What have I done?"The question spiraled in her mind, clashing with the part of her that felt comforted by his presence.

She took a deep breath, the scent of the bathroom soap filling her nostrils, and splashed water on her face, hoping to wash away the confusion. The cold water stung her cheeks, but it did nothing to soothe the turmoil inside her. She needed clarity, but memories of Uncle Lester loomed over her, suffocating any sense of peace.

Flame stared into the mirror, her reflection, a mixture of anger and hurt. She hated this—hated how one moment could flip her world upside down. She forced herself to breathe steadily, each inhalation a reminder of the strength she needed to reclaim.