170

You know that moment when you feel so empty, tired emotionally, physically, and mentally, when you don't have the strength to even acknowledge life? This wasn't just a phase for Penelope. She was sure that if she wasn't so strong-willed, she might have ended it all to stop feeling so uneasy and empty. Maybe that would help many people in many ways, especially Anastasia.

She kicked off her shoes as soon as she entered her room and slammed the door loudly behind her, possibly startling those downstairs. She tossed her bag and jacket to the side before falling into the bed. She had thought going out today might help lighten her mood or take her mind off things. She had thought being less mean might make her feel better.

But she was totally wrong. Yes, she did feel happy watching her friends have fun, but that was far from the redemption she needed. The moment they parted ways, the smile had fallen off her face. What was she even thinking? That after everything horrible she had done, she