Page 1 of Fade With Me

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My thoughts drifted as I became spellbound by the rain’s melancholic melody echoing in the puddles outside. Sometimes, my imagination takes over, and I fantasize about stepping into a different reality, one that mirrors the mystical worlds I’ve encountered in books, a world that stirs my soul and makes me feel truly alive.

But then Reggie’s sarcastic tone shattered the spell, his voice cutting through the air like a jagged knife.

“Earth to Brynlynn! Snap out of it! These dishes won’t wash themselves, you know.” Heclapped his hands together, the sharp sound reverberating through the room.

I jumped slightly at the noise, sighing as I stayed lost in thought, and resumed scrubbing the plate in my hand. His words hit like a cold shower, but I refused to let them douse my inner fire.

“I’ve got a late night planned,” he said, his smirk widening, “but don’t think you get to slack off. I want the house to sparkle. I know how much you appreciate keeping things neat and tidy.” His tone turned saccharine. “Oh, and one last thing…be home by 8:00 tonight. If you can.”

Resentment bubbled up. The way he always brought up my curfew annoyed me. I hated how he acted as if I had a choice.

We both knew I didn’t.

I glanced over my shoulder, refusing to look at him directly, defiance flickering in my eyes. “Don’t you think I’m a little too old for a curfew?”

Reggie’s expression was the very definition of insincerity. “We’ve been through this,” he said, his tone sickeningly sweet. “It’s not about control; it’s about keeping yousafe.”

The way he emphasized safe only stoked the simmering anger inside me. I tuned him out, finding comfort in the rhythmic motion of the sudsy water and the soft clink of dishes.

But he wouldn’t let up.

“Come on, can’t you see I’m trying to talk to you?” His voice rose, irritation seeping through. “The least you could do is acknowledge me. And maybe,just maybe, treat me with some kindness? I am yourhusband, after all.” He drew out the word like it was supposed to mean something. “I just can’t relax knowing I’ll worry about you all night.”

I set my yellow rubber gloves down by the sink, the material squeaking as I flexed my fingers. I gritted my teeth, keeping my frustration in check as I turned to face him, meeting his eyes for the first time.

“Everything’s under control, Reggie. The house will be spotless, and I’ll be home safe. No need to worry.”

Technically, Reggiewasmy husband, but our marriage felt like a poor imitation of the fairytale romances I’d read about. We didn’t even share a bedroom, and the emotional connection was nonexistent. It was more like a formal business arrangement, a mere illusion of marriage.

A crooked smile spread across his face, showcasing his perfectly imperfect teeth, pearly whites with a slight gap. His rugged charm was undeniable, only adding to his allure. Tousled dirty blond hair framed his strong features, and his intense gray eyes, paired with his flawless complexion, made him stand out in any crowd. Though he didn’t quite reach the six feet he claimed, his lean, toned 5'9 frame held a presence that felt fartaller, filling the room with a confidence that bordered on arrogance.

“I’ll check in with you later,” he said, tilting his head,painfully slow, as his gaze dragged over me. “And Brynlynn…you really should smile more.” He eased back against the wall, arms folded, and flashed an obnoxious, exaggerated grin. Then he pointed to it. “You’re so tense all the time. Come on…smile for me.”

I clenched my jaw and swallowed hard, arranging my features into something that might’ve passed for a smile—if it didn’t look more like pain.

Clearly satisfied with my weak attempt, he straightened and stepped closer. He gave my elbow a quick jab, then squeezed my shoulders like we were old teammates. “Atta girl,” he said, utterly oblivious to the quiet fury building inside me.

I couldn’t stand how he cloaked himself in false kindness. The truth was clear to me, though. Beneath his cheerful facade simmered a volatile mix of emotions—one wrong move, and it would detonate. I’d seen it before, and I had no desire to set it off again.

He bent down, his gaze locking onto mine as he tapped his cheek, a sidelong glance that practically radiated anticipation. I hesitated, the moment sending a wave of disgust through me, but then I steeled myself and planted a reluctant kiss on his cheek. The simple act left me utterly drained.

“Don’t miss me too much,” he teased, winking before grabbing his things and swaggering out the door, his bag bouncing behind him like a happy puppy. He whistled a carefree tune that made me want to gag. The second the door clicked shut, I grabbed a nearby pillow and pressed it to my face, muffling a scream as the pressure inside me finally released.

After a productive morning ticking off my to-do list, I decided to treat myself to a casual afternoon of window shopping, hoping to score some good finds at the thrift store. My wardrobe is exclusively secondhand. I like to pretend it’s a quirky, artsy choice, but the truth is, I’m broke and can’t afford new clothes.

On my way to the store, I passed by Charla Mae’s and couldn’t resist pausing to admire the window. The elegant storefront, with its sparkling chandeliers and polished marble floors, practically called out to me. It was a fashion lover’s dream, filled with stunning jewelry and breathtaking dresses that glitter like diamonds in the light.

One dress, in particular, always caught my eye, a soft, shimmering scarlet red number with delicate beading along the hem, draping effortlessly over a mannequin. I could almost feel the smooth, luxurious fabric against my skin, the way it would hug my curves and flow withevery step. Its neckline was a perfect blend of daring and sophisticated, a glimpse of elegance that made my heart race. But as usual, my taste far exceeded my bank account. The prices at Charla Mae’s were nothing short of astronomical, making it a luxury I could only admire from the sidewalk.

A few minutes later, I pushed open the familiar creaky doors of my favorite thrift store. The old bell above chimed its greeting as I stepped inside, and almost immediately, Sadie, the warm-hearted owner, appeared from the back room. She gave me a wink that felt like a long-awaited hug.

“Bryn! Darling, it’s been too long!” she called out, her voice as bright and welcoming as her smile.

Sadie was a vision of grace. Her raven-black hair framed her heart-shaped face like a dark halo, and her deep, velvety brown eyes seemed to carry untold stories and secrets. Despite her striking beauty, there was a subtle sorrow in her gaze, an undercurrent that only deepened her mystique.

“Hey, Sadie, I’m so sorry I haven’t been around much,” I said, feeling a twinge of guilt. “Work at the diner’s been nonstop, and with everything else at home, I’ve barely had a moment to breathe.” I paused and sighed. “How have you been? And how is Elysia?”

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