Michael_Olayemi_3708

Fifteen-year-old Mary appears to have a bright and promising life, but beneath the surface, she battles inner turmoil. Haunted by guilt over a childhood incident with her younger brother, Mark, Mary struggles with self-harm as she faces the growing pressures of family conflict, academic decline, and bullying at school.

Mary's life takes a darker turn when a manipulative new student, Ryan, enters her world. Drawn in by his charm, she hopes he can help her escape her pain, only to be betrayed by his sinister motives. Together with Mona, a jealous classmate with a vendetta against Mary, Ryan's deceit leads Mary into an emotional and physical downward spiral.

As her family’s financial struggles and emotional distance worsen, Mary finds herself isolated from the few sources of light in her life, including her best friend, Sophie. The story builds to a devastating climax when Mary overdoses, sending her into a coma. From there, The Dark Side explores themes of guilt, betrayal, redemption, and recovery as Mary fights her way back to the surface.

The broken path

Mary tugged nervously at the sleeves of her sweater as she walked into school, her latest injury burning beneath the fabric.

She had spent the morning applying pressure to the wound, hoping to stop the bleeding. Her parents hadn't noticed, too

preoccupied with their financial troubles to question her long sleeves or the tension in her voice.

At lunch, Sophie sat across from her, a look of concern shadowing her usually bright face. "Mary, you've been distant. Are

Mary forced a weak smile. "I'm fine, Sophie. Just... tired."

Sophie didn't believe her, but before she could press further, Ryan approached. His charming smile and easy confidence

immediately drew Mary's attention. Do you Mind if I join you?" he asked, sliding into the seat beside Mary without waiting for an answer.

Sophie stiffened but said nothing. Ryan leaned toward Mary, his voice low and soothing. "You look like you've got a lot on

your mind. Want to talk about it?"

Mary hesitated, glancing at Sophie, who watched the interaction with wary eyes. "I don't think"

"Come on," Ryan interrupted gently. I'm here for you. You can trust me.

Something in his tone broke through Mary's defenses. She stood abruptly, avoiding Sophie's concerned gaze. "Let's talk somewhere else," she muttered, walking toward an empty corner of the schoolyard.

Ryan followed, his expression carefully crafted into one of concern. Once they were alone, Mary crossed her arms, clutching

at her sleeves as if to shield herself from what she was about to say.

I don't even know why I'm telling you this,she began, her voice trembling. But... I can't stop hurting myself. It's the only way I can cope. When everything feels too much,when I feel like I'm drowning,it helps me feel something real, "showing him the scar on her skin"

Ryan nodded, his face a mask of sympathy. Inside, he was triumphant. This was exactly what he needed to gain her trust.

"That must be so hard," he said, his voice soft. But you don't have to go through it alone. I'm here for you, Mary. I understand

Mary's eyes filled with tears. "You really mean that?"

Of course, Ryan said, taking her hand. But there's something I need to tell you. I think Sophie is part of the problem.

Mary frowned, confused. What do you mean?

She acts like she's helping, but I've seen the way she looks at you. It's like she pities you, like she thinks she's better than

you. That's not what you need right now. You need someone who really gets it.

Mary bit her lip, doubt flickering in her eyes. Sophie's my best friend. She's always been there for me.

Has she, though?Ryan pressed. Or has she just made you feel like you can't be yourself around her? Like you have to hide

Mary thought back to all the times she had pushed Sophie away, fearing her judgment. Maybe Ryan was right. Maybe Sophie didn't really understand her. don't know, she whispered.

Ryan squeezed her hand. I'm not saying you should hate her. Just... take some time for yourself. Let me help you instead.

Mary felt a flicker of hope. Okay, she said. I'll try.

As they walked back to class, Sophie watched them from afar, her heart sinking. She didn't know what Ryan had said, but she could see the growing distance between her and Mary and she didn't know how to stop it.

Chapter 19: The Silent Pain