Chapter Twenty-two

Brenda stepped out of the front door, taking in the crisp morning air. It was a beautiful day, but Brenda’s mind was clouded with thoughts of Damien. She couldn’t shake the feeling of disappointment that had settled in her chest. As she started her walk to school, Brenda made a decision. She needed to put Damien out of her mind and find someone else to talk to. Alfred immediately came to her mind. He had been a constant presence in Brenda’s life lately, always there to lend a listening ear or a supportive shoulder. Brenda knew that she could rely on him to understand her situation, and that was exactly what she needed in that moment.

As she walked, Brenda found herself daydreaming about the possibilities of spending time with Alfred. They had grown quite close, but always in secret. Brenda couldn’t risk Damien finding out about their friendship. But with Damien out of the picture, Brenda felt a renewed sense of freedom. She reached the edge of road that cut into her usual school path.