Maria.
I slipped away quietly, my steps unsteady as I searched for a place where no one would see me break. The laughter and music from the hall faded with every step until I found a narrow, hidden corner tucked between cold stone walls. The moment I was alone, the strength I'd been forcing myself to hold onto shattered.
I slid down slowly, my back pressing against the wall as silent sobs tore out of my chest. I covered my mouth with my hand, but it didn't stop the pain from spilling over. Tears streamed freely, hot and relentless, soaking into my palms as my shoulders shook. I cried until my chest burned, until my throat ached, until there was nothing left to hold back.
I didn't even know why I was crying.
That was the worst part.
