Page 31 of Crash into me

“I don’t ever want to fucking sing again!” I tell the night, running my hands through my hair.

That was my father’s guitar. I rush into the water, my hands skimming for it. It’s tucked into the sand at the bottom and as I retrieve it, water pours out. I don’t know how much, if any, damage this will do to it. Stupid. Fucking. Stupid.

I need to go home, to get some sleep.

I walk into the forest, slipping my shoes back on as I exit the sand. I didn’t want to park my bike on the road, so I tucked it a little ways in.

The night is quiet, small sounds of animals pattering around and waking as I walk near them. Something rustles, louder normal.

“Hello?” I shout, hoping it’s not an alligator. I really don’t feel like fighting one tonight.

The steps pause, and I imagine it’s Skyler coming to meet me.

My mind wanders to her jumping in my arms, to us skinny dipping in the water. To a pleasure filled night covered in sand and sweat.

But she doesn’t remember this bike, or our secret beach.

Much less the stupid fucking tree that’s screwed my entire life up.

I grip the sling, tossing the sopping wet guitar over my back.

Maybe I shouldn’t come back here anymore … It holds too many painful memories.

14

Skyler POV

Workers have been buzzing around the property, preparing our home for the charity benefit.

Frilly flowers in large, cylinder vases dot the walkways. Glimmering crystal décor shimmers on the countertops while fanciful, overpriced grab bags are being filled in the foyer.

It does look beautiful, charming, elegant. Hiding the horrors.

A dress waits on my bed as I return from my shower. I want to say I hate it, but it’s absolutely gorgeous.

It’s a romantic, magical thing. Ruby red in color, floor length. It hugs my curves as I slip it on.

I turn in the mirror, noting the elegant drop in fabric showcasing my back. I’m so thankful the bruises are gone.

This dress makes me wonder if I haven’t received new ones for the sake of tonight. From the way they’ve been acting this event is a huge deal, a huge transaction.

But I’m going to make the best of it, as for the first time in a long time I feel beautiful.

“Oh. My. God!” Rita squeals, rushing over to run her hands over the fabric.

“It’s so beautiful.” I’m unable to look away from the mirror.

She playfully bows. “Thank you!” she beams.

“Wait, you made this?” I should have known money couldn’t buy something like this; this was made with love.

She places her hands on my shoulders. “How do you think it fits like a glove when you haven’t had one single fitting, dear?” She grins. “I know your measurements.” “Now, slip into something more comfortable” She pulls out a fluffy makeup brush. “we have to complete this look!”

* * *

It’s been a few hours,and I’m slipping the dress back on. The reflection in the mirror is near unrecognizable. She’s not unfamiliar though, just a distant version of myself before the crash when I was happy. “Rita …” My lips quiver. “I look so …”

“Beautiful? Ravishing? Stunning?” she chimes, holding a hairbrush like a wand. She is my magical godmother.