CHAPTER EIGHTY TWO - GETTING READY TO SAY GOODBYE 

Jayla

I stand in front of the mirror, and I run my fingers over the black dress I am putting on. I try not to let my fingers shake as I do so and clutch the tiny piece of paper tightly in my left hand.

I slip my feet in black heels to match the dress and sit on my bed afterwards, just staring at space. I need a moment to collect myself.

It takes me all of my courage not to run back into my bathroom and curl up like a ball and cry. It feels like I am lifting heavy stones up as I move my legs to walk out of my room.

I close the door behind me and quietly walk down the stairs, holding the railing tightly because

otherwise l would have fallen due to my shaky legs.

"My poor baby," my mother coos, her eyes filled with remorse and tears and she rushes forward to hug me.

My father stands behind her with a sad smile on his face, silently offering his comfort just like always. They too are clad in all black, ready for the tough day.

"Come on," my mother says, sniffing as she grabs my hand and