Page 71 of Beautifully Broken

As I dress for the funeral, Van is with me trying to keep me from going psycho while we’re here.

All I want to do is say goodbye to my sister, not by blood but by choice, then tear apart everyone who ever touched her.

I smooth down the black sheath dress; it has a scoop neck and ends just above my knees.

I slip into black pumps and take a glance at myself to make sure my mask for today is in place.

“I know you want to see them suffer, but you need to be here for Cali. Make sure she is honored properly.”

“I know,” I turn into his embrace and kiss his jaw. “I am so thankful you are here with me to hold me up and probably keep me back from hurting anyone.”

“You know I am here for whatever you need.” He kisses my forehead and takes my hand, leading me out.

As we get to the church, I see people who don’t deserve to be here, her fiancé, the headmaster, various others and I tense, almost vibrating with anger and the need to destroy them.

Van tugs me against his side, wrapping his arm around my waist. He kisses my temple providing his strength.

Like he knows if he lets go, I will go off avenging angel style in broad daylight.

This is not what the focus of today should be on.

Cali’s mother approaches me with tears streaming down her cheeks.

“I know you hate me and think I should have done more for Cali, but I did what I could in the situation. You don’t know everything, so please know I loved my baby girl with everything in me.

” She hands me an envelope. “She left this with your name on it. I hope her words bring you comfort.” I take it from her hand, and she walks away .

Later that night, I curl up in the hotel room and open the last words I will get from my person.

My bright star,

I am so sorry to be gone, but know I love you and you were my bright star that guided me.

You always saw what I refused to admit and I’m sure as painful as this is, it’s not coming as a surprise.

I couldn’t fight any longer. It was time to leave on my terms. Even if you don’t agree with them, know I would never have been able to live with the information and nightmare my life has been.

I thought long about my options before selecting this choice.

I’m leaving you the information you always asked for.

Know I’m with you always and will be the hand that guides your vengeance for us.

Your muse

Cali

-Your stepfather, the senator, governor and their friends run an underage sex ring.

Grooming, trafficking, auctioning, you name it.

The school is a cover for the headmaster to supply minors he selects or are requested.

In return, the coach and he get to make a choice for themselves and help groom them.

My mom is stuck in this mess, and I don’t know the details of it to get her out. MAKE THEM PAY!