Chapter Twenty One

Nicole;

Little dregs of sleep extend their wispy fingers to me and it takes all I have not to give in to them. I push up from my seat and walk over to the coffeemaker, pouring myself a cup aggressively. I do not bother using any creamer or sugar, I need the coffee black and strong to stay awake. Kicking off my heels, I roll my shoulders and pad barefooted to my floor length window, pulling the blinds open to reveal the view below. I've never been able to get over the beauty of the city lights, it's one thing from my childhood that has followed me into adulthood. The city flourishes all around me, bright twinkling lights adorning the dark blanket of the night. It's simply beautiful.

It used to be a means of escape. As they had their way with me, I'd shut my eyes tight and imagine I was somewhere else, somewhere up high, flying over the beautiful city. Or perhaps on the beach, the waves crashing against my feet and the wind in my hair. And I made a promise to myself. One day, I'd escape