NEGLECTED ~LEXA WYETT~ Upon awakening, a persistent throbbing blockaded my head, threatening to shatter it into a thousand pieces. The leftovers of last night's turbulent emotions lingered, leaving their mark on my swollen eyes and aching body. As I brewed a soothing cup of coffee, I mentally outlined my day's agenda: 1. Ensure Ace's safe departure from school. 2. Steer clear of Alexander after our confrontational conversation that had shattered my heart and left it still mending. 3. Deposit funds into my father's account, as a consequence of his reckless alcohol consumption. "My dear, your complexion suggests a restless night," Chef Grace inquired with a hint of concern in her voice. "It appears Ace is rubbing off on her, dragging her into her ceaseless vortex of stress," quip

