Chapter 6: Caught
Chapter 4: Caught
Maddy's car turned into Bronze City, and Ashley's heart pounded more loudly.
This was the moment she dreaded most. The moment she'd tried hard to not think about. She'd wanted to just remain blank until she faced Charlotte... but reality wasn't as simple.
She couldn't hide forever, even if she wanted.
The city held a history Ashley would rather forget – bittersweet reminders of her first love, of laughter, obsession, and ultimately, heartbreak. Her mind lingered a little too long on the last word. It was the same thing she was feeling now. The only difference being that the current wound, despite going so deep, held no candle light to what she felt when Lorenzo left her.
It was in the past now, but the memories still felt like sharp fragments that cut deep as they rushed into her mind, though she was quick to shake them off, focusing back on the present. Back on Charlotte.
Four years had passed since she fled Charlotte's house and married Christian. Her eyes stung as she wrapped her arms around herself, clinging to her shoulders.
Maddy turned to her, worry clouding her expression. "Are you okay? Do you need me to stop for awhile?"
Ashley gave a disconnected nod before returning her gaze to the road ahead.
As the duo arrived at Charlotte's compound, the hammering of Ashley's heartbeat could be heard if you listened carefully.
Maddy's small glances and gentle hand squeeze could only do much.