Sleepless Nights

JAMES

I tossed and turned in bed, unable to find sleep. The events of the past weeks consumed my mind, replaying them over and over. Leaving Destiny to sleep undisturbed , I ventured out onto the porch. The cool night air caressed my skin as I searched for my hidden stash of cigarettes. Finally finding them, I lit one and took a few drags. However, the taste made me feel nauseous, prompting me to stub it out in a nearby flowerpot. Even the simple pleasure of smoking had been tainted. What had become of me?

A part of me longed to confront Ronan and force the truth from him. But deep down, I knew that once I started, I might never stop. It was a painful realization that even the person I trusted most, besides Destiny, could cause me such hurt. The night was frosty; the wind attempting to whisk me away from my spot by the pool, but I paid it little attention. I dipped my feet into the heated water, watching as steam rose from its surface. To distract myself and exhaust my mind, I strippe