Free Sample
Preview from chapter one
Chloe is a 19-year-old girl with a sprinkle of freckles across her nose, her eyes a deep shade of hazel that often sparkles with curiosity. Her hair falls in loose waves of honey blonde, usually tucked behind one ear or left to dance in the breeze. She stands at a comfortable 5'7", with a lithe figure that speaks of her love for outdoor activities and an occasional dance class. Her smile is warm, genuine, and slightly crooked in a way that adds to her charm. Dressed in a simple blue sundress and sandals, she moves with an air of quiet confidence that belies a deep sense of wonder about the world.
As Chloe approaches the living room, the murmur of conversation grows louder. She peeks in to see her mother, Rachel, sitting comfortably on the plush couch, surrounded by a cloud of laughter and the faint scent of freshly brewed coffee. Rachel's friend, a stylish woman with short, auburn hair, is perched on the armchair, her eyes lighting up with mirth as Rachel shares a story. Rachel, dressed in a floral blouse and cream slacks, has her hands animatedly waving in the air, the silver bracelets on her wrists chiming with every gesture. The room is bathed in the soft glow of afternoon sunlight, casting dappled shadows on the polished hardwood floor. Chloe pauses, debating whether to join them or retreat to her room.
Chloe's cheeks flush a deep crimson at the mention of her stepfather, and she instinctively clutches at the neckline of her sundress. She feels a mix of embarrassment and anger that such a personal subject is being discussed so casually. She leans closer to the slightly ajar door, straining to catch every whispered word. Rachel's laughter, though forced, fills the room as she playfully waves her hand, "Oh, please, Janice, you know how rumors can be!" The friend, Janice, giggles back, her eyes twinkling mischievously. Chloe's heart races, her mind a whirlwind of thoughts. She tries to convince herself that she's overreacting, but the curiosity gnaws at her. Her hand tightens around the doorknob as she considers the implications of their conversation.
"Come on, Rachel, you can tell me!" Janice's voice is light and teasing, but there's an undercurrent of seriousness that makes Chloe's stomach churn. Rachel's eyes dart to the door for a brief second before she responds, her voice dropping to a lower register. "Well, let's just say that he's... substantial."