"You can, and you will," he growls, slamming into me harder, sending me over the edge.
Our mingled cries of ecstasy fill the room as we come together, my world shattering into a million pieces.
As our breathing slows, I turn over in Gerald's arms, our hearts beating in tandem.
That was like nothing I've ever experienced.
Every one of my nerve endings feels individually raw, and my head hums in the afterglow.
Finally, it seems like I’ve done something right.
But then why is there a niggling feeling in the back of my head?
Chapter 14
Alina
Acouple of weeks later
I walk into Yara's room, expecting to see her curled up with a book or staring at her brand new smartphone that now seems permanently attached to her hand.
It hasn't taken long for her to acclimate to more of an American life, and the comforts afforded by a life with Gerald.
Instead, she's sitting by the window, staring out at the darkening sky.
The light from the sunset casts an orange glow on her face, highlighting the sadness in her eyes.
"Hey," I say softly, sitting down next to her.
"Hey," she responds, her voice barely above a whisper.
I wait for her to speak, sensing that something is bothering her.
"How was school today?" I ask.
I can't imagine it would be easy, settling into not just a new country and home, but also to a new school and classmates and all that comes with that.
Especially at the age of twelve, when hormones are running rampant and classmates hone their words like weapons.
"School's fine," she finally mutters, but her lack of enthusiasm speaks volumes. Yara loves to learn, and this is not like her.
"Is something wrong?" I ask, placing a hand on her shoulder.
Yara hesitates before speaking. "Everything's so different here, Mama. The way they talk, the games they play...I don't fit in."
I feel a pang of guilt, wondering if it was a mistake to uproot our lives and move to the US. But I push those thoughts aside, focusing on Yara's words.
"Have you talked to anyone at school? Made any friends?" I ask gently.
Yara shakes her head. "It's hard. They all seem so...different. I'm the odd one out, and they think it's funny."
I take a deep breath, trying to think of a way to help her adjust. "Maybe we can find some cultural events or groups to join, meet other people who understand what it's like to be new here."
I've done a bit of research online, but I must admit, that kind of investigation gave way to more exciting pursuits like exploring the new house and making vacation plans with Gerald.
Yara nods slowly, but I can tell she's still hesitant. "Can I tell you something?" she asks, her voice small.
"Of course," I say, sensing her need to confide in me.