Chương 18: Self Loath (2)

(Lana)

Black as night, I stood on the rails of my balcony and let the wind ruffle my hair.

My tears no longer made puddles on the floor as they rolled down my cheeks, but instead were blown away by the wind.

My arms were outstretched to the sides as I looked up into the night sky that was littered with stars.

My grandmother always told me that after people died, their souls became stars and watched over us here on Earth.

The memory brought a smile to my face even as I was crying, and at the same time it made me cry even harder.

"I'm sorry, Nana, but I won't be able to make it. I'm sorry, but despite how much I should, I just can't keep my grip on this. I'm sorry that I failed to come through for you, Denie; as you well know, I never intended to do so. But I'm coming home now. This time, it's permanent. I sincerely hope that you can forgive me when we meet real soon and welcome me with open arms..." I uttered the words in a hushed tone into the night.