#Chapter 52: Grounded

Celeste The hollow echo of my sobs filled the otherwise silent room. The dim light of the moon filtering through the curtains did little to illuminate the dark, bleak space that reflected the turmoil in my heart. I'd barely managed to wipe away the tears when I heard the familiar, almost sinister creak of my bedroom door opening. “You’ve been acting out of character.” Jack’s voice was cold, filled with suspicion. “What's going on with you, Celeste?” I looked up, eyes puffy and red, and swallowed the thick knot of emotions in my throat. “Nothing,” I whispered, avoiding his piercing gaze. “Don't lie to me, Celeste!” His voice had risen a few octaves, making me flinch. “Your behavior, these weird errands, the photos of you cleaning—” He trailed off, clearly expecting an explanation. “Jack, I just—” “Spit it out,” he demanded. “There’s...there’s nothing,” I stammered, feeling the weight of my deceit press heavily against my chest. I wished I could tell him the t