Chapter 69 Shadows And Strength

• The setting sun painted the sky in hues of orange and purple as Britney trudged along the cracked sidewalk. The day wasn't the best, invisible burdens threatened to crush her spirit. Her cheek still stung from Jasmine's slap.
• She knew Brandon wouldn't be home by now, which was a relief. She could use some hours to pull herself together and not be overwhelmed. She definitely didn't want him to see her in such a state so he wouldn't get worried, having a lot already to handle.
• As she approached her house, the familiar sight of home offered little comfort. Something was off, a discordant note in her normal routine.