Chapter 16：What Once Was

I stare out of the window, transfixed by the passing clouds and tranquil thoughts, blocking out the plane inhabitant's turbulent antics. Nothing can tear me away from my thoughts of last night.

Before he could reject me, I fled. But he followed, much to my surprise. Lee cornered me at the doorway, then...

"Jen, are you okay?" A compassionate voice calls out to me.

"What? No, I'm fine." My halfhearted response recieves a pang of sadness in Ann's eyes.

I try smiling, but look away to keep my emotions in check. The truth is, I don't regret leaving. In a way I've felt inferior to Lee. He's smart and mature, while I have the nature of a child. As I am now, any relationship would self destruct. I'm becoming my own person, one that I can be proud of.

It feels liberating to take my life into my own hands. I can't stand by Lee's side, always wondering what freedom would be like. Until now I've lived a life guided by twisted and mentally unstable men.

With a determined smile, I turn back to Ann.

"It's all going to be okay. Even if it won't stay that way, I'll be strong enough to get through it."

~*~

My eyes meet the pitch black ceiling, in a complete daze. The images of her and I holding each other replays.

I followed her into the room, pinning Jen onto her bed. Our lips touch then bond together. Every part of her was against me, from her arms tangled in my hair to breasts pressed onto my chest.

My face burns at the memory.

I hadn't noticed until then that she was braless, which quickly became apparent. In fear of startling the girl I only wrapped my arms around her waist. At least in this life I'd spare her of the pain plaguing her life.

Jennifer soon became tired and let go of my hair. She'd fallen asleep suddenly. For once the constant tormented expression remained absent from her face.

Without thinking, I brushed stands of hair off her peaceful face. She stirred a little, only to snuggle into my chest. I pulled the covers over us and held her tighter.

We fell asleep in that position. When I awoke, Jennifer was already gone. It stung deep inside. As suddenly as she came, she was gone. Every moment with her feels like a dream.

Waking up from it became my deepest regret.