Read Ascending Darkness (Shattering the Darkness) for Free Online

knowing that if she feels like this then Nikko must be even worse.
    And Brynn …
    And Avery …
    I’ve caused everyone so much pain with my decisions. I’m nothing but a selfish bitch who couldn’t see the damage that was happening all around me because of my actions. I decide right then that I’m going to do better and put that old saying to work. ‘Fake it ‘til you make it.’ I know my heart will never be the same after Breccan and there will always be that void, but he does deserve better.
    “What would be a great idea?” I hear from behind me and I turn around to see Nikko standing there.
    “I’m going to make Harper a collage of photos of you guys for her birthday,” Kara smiles wide at me, then at Nikko.
    “That sounds good ,” Nikko smiles at me and I return it making sure to put feeling behind it.
    “Well, I’m gonna go finish up some paperwork before heading out. Thanks Kara. I’ll talk to you later.” I give her a hug and turn around to give Nikko one. Once he realizes what I’m doing his arms go tight and I softly whisper to him, “I love you,” with a thick voice and tears in my eyes before scurrying off to the back.
     
    *****
     
    Today is Saturday; the big day. I’ve done better with my emotions. I hide the ache in my heart all day and let it out at night when I go to bed, instead of letting it weigh me down. I’ve been eating more and working out less so that I’ve put a little weight back on. And everyone seems to be satisfied with my change. I just hope I get to the ‘make it’ part before long because this is so draining and I fear tonight will really do me in.
    I just finish drying my hair after my shower when my door buzzer goes off. I walk downstairs and look through the intercom to see Brynn and Avery. I buzz them up telling them I am upstairs, then make my way back to my bathroom.
    Before long they both come in carrying a of couple bags. One is a clothing bag and I eye it suspiciously.
    “What is that?” There is a bit of warning in my voice.
    “We bought you a dress for tonight,” Avery smiles completely ignoring the warning.
    “Why?”
    “Because it’s your birthday and we want to make sure you match the theme,” Brynn answers.
    “There’s a fucking theme to this thing?” I ask incredulously before mumbling, “Jesus Christ.”
    “Yep. Suck it up, bitch. Sit down. We’re gonna do your hair and makeup,” Avery orders and I do as they say while muttering about pushy friends that I will have to consider revoking membership cards from.
    “Shush. I don’t want to hear it. You’re gonna look fabulous ,” Avery continues to order me around.
    About an hour later my hair is done in soft waves down my back and shoulders with smoky eye makeup on to bring out the green in my eyes.
    “Okay, your outfit is on the bed. Get dressed and meet us downstairs. We’ll get dressed down there ,” Brynn orders as they pack up the makeup and put away the hair supplies before they breeze out of the bathroom and my room.
    I walk out to my bedroom to see the most beautiful dress laying on the bed along with white lace underwear and bra. I have a moment of hysteria of them picking out my underwear, but set it aside as I remind myself that they have no sense of boundaries.
    I go to my jewelry box and put on large hoop gold earrings and a wide gold band on my left wrist- per Brynn’s instructions. I slip into my undergarments and pick up the dress. It’s a simple white satin , above the knee sheath dress, with an asymmetric one shoulder neckline. Over the back of the shoulder, a small train hangs off. It’s simple and elegant and I realize how much I miss my high-maintenance wardrobe. Brynn and Avery have paired my dress with a pair of cerulean blue pumps with spikes along the back and heel.
    The sight of that color just reminds me of Breccan’s eyes. I slouch down onto the bed as I feel the tears start to build.
    Fuck, I miss him so much .
    When does this stop?
    Shouldn’t the