Charli
“Charli?"
The sound of my name resonated through my dreams, pulling me from my slumber as a warm touch skirted my back, tracing my spine before resting on my shoulder. The connection created a lifeline back to reality. It was one I hadn't realized I needed or even wanted. For so long I'd pretended to be strong. I probably wasn't fooling anyone, except maybe myself. I'd thought that during all of those years in Montague Manor that I'd been alone, but I hadn't.
Jane's voice over the phone, her words, and reassurance—they'd always been there, whenever I needed them. More than that, she'd been the one to constantly remind me that I had my mother's support, even when I couldn't see it. Most of all, Jane had told me that I was loved, was kind, and was beautiful—inside and out.
In the
