Alesha Stokes — Back to the BattlefieldThe night had barely brushed against me.I drifted in and out of sleep, just a few minutes here and there, between sighs and scattered thoughts—each one pulling me awake with a new fear, a fresh memory. My eyes burned with exhaustion, but the weariness of the mind has always been crueler than that of the body.Before the sun had even risen, I was already on my feet.I got dressed quietly, trying not to wake anyone. Marilyn was in a deep sleep, her face peaceful for the first time in days. Her friends were scattered around the floor on makeshift mattresses, all fast asleep. I stood there for a moment, watching them, my heart tight in my chest. I wanted to hug them, to thank them for everything… but I knew if I woke Marilyn, she’d try to make me stay. And this time, I couldn’t afford to waver.I slung my bundle over my shoulder, pulled the thickest cloak I had over my head, and walked to the door.Just before stepping out, I looked back at the hou
Last Updated : 2025-04-14 Read more