Chapter 1- Ready As I'll Ever Be》

-Two Months Later-

I USED TO THINK I KNEW ALL THE ANSWERS NEEDED TO STRIVE. People would think it's normal. Though there's no such thing as "normal". Some say it's a leap of faith. Some say a test. Maybe it is in a way, and I should know, my beliefs were once put to the test and began questioning everything about life and this world.

It tells you that things are not what they seem.

And it can really bite.

There I was running away from the government agents at Planet Hollywood. I was panting and running as fast as I can looking back every four seconds. Suddenly out of the blue the floor beneath me broke like glass shattering and I found myself falling through the floor in slow motion.

Falling fast yet slow.

The wind rapidly blew my hair around and hitting my face. I then felt myself hit the ground which I had no clue how since I saw nothing.

I turned myself around and noticed I was on an open field surrounded by pine trees.

"Katriona."

I saw a familiar person across the field. Seth.

He stretched his hand out to me, his eyes filled with love.

I began running, running up to him. I was almost to him when I saw Henry Burke appearing behind him with that evil, greedy look.

I ran faster and faster to get to him, the ground crumbled beneath me. I jumped to grab his hand but instead my hand went right through his. My eyes went wide as I was falling once again.

"Can't save him now girl." With a cackle Burke pulled out a gun and shot him.

"Kara."

"Kara."

I jolted back into reality, blinking in confusion. "Katriona Ember Nicole!"

"Huh?" I turned to see that I was standing in my room, staring blankly into the mirror.

"I came to see if you're ready to go to your appointment." "Oh, yea hang on." Smoothing out my outfit of the day, I grabbed my phone and wallet and slipped them into the pocket of my jeans. Checking the mirror one more time.

Just smile and stay confident and fake it till you make it. I reminded myself. Because it is the only way through.

You would think after spending the weekend at the beach you would be feeling fresh and recharged. Partially yes I am feeling some better, but that doesn't keep the thoughts from running.

I met mom by the car, climbed in and buckled up. "You ready?" She asked, sending me a quick side glance behind her designer sunglasses.

"Ready as I'll ever be."

She revved up the engine of the silver four door 2016 Dodge Charger. Pulling out of the driveway, we headed out. On the way, I pulled out my phone and skimmed through Instagram. I smiled softly at an image Jack Bruno posted of Junkyard, posing for the camera wearing a cute bowtie. He looks so happy, happy for having another chance at having a home and life with a family to give him countless cuddles and meaty treats.