Chapter 52

Courage. A simple word. But with a hundred implications. We need courage at every stage of our lives. From the moment we take our first steps to the moment we take the leap. We need courage to leave the house, knowing the dangers that await us outside, knowing that not everything is as it seems. We need courage to say the words we've wanted to say to someone for a long time. We need courage to make a simple phone call. And now, I needed to muster up all the courage I could, to face the world that awaited me outside this limo. To face my past, my present and my inevitable future.

I took a deep breath as I held Scott's hand tight. He smiled encouragingly at me, and I gave him a small, forced smile. We were greeted by the sound of flashes and bright lights. Until then, I hadn't realized that this ball was such a huge event.

Immediately, Dylan and Leon were by our side, making sure no one got too close. I didn't know if I was supposed to answer questions or not. I looked t