8. Girl In The Photograph

[LIZZY]

I was still in absolute shock by the time I stepped outside what seemed to be an office of sorts. A bit shaken up after the whole one-sided conversation as my legs mindlessly led me to wherever they saw fit.

My brain was still unwilling to believe that the words he poured into my ear were actual and not a nightmare that had practically haunted me for years.

I wasn’t dumb to believe I’d be able to avoid this confrontation forever. I knew it would happen sooner or later, and I’d be pulled back into this ruthless world where women had no alternative except to be obedient wives or whores they could keep on the side.

But, hey, a girl can dream, right?

And, even though the reality was always gnawing at me, I allowed myself to weave a dream that was never destined to happen.

I dreamed of being free. A family to hold close. And a home to call my own.

Something Venice couldn’t give me and Vector couldn’t promise to give either.

I knew he was angry. But I was angrier back when I left. N