Chapter 18. Prove It

RUBY

The impending rain made its presence known through the rumbling thunder and flashes of lightning. Peering out of the large window in my room, I observed menacing, dark clouds gathering ominously overhead. I resisted the urge to dive under my covers and wrap myself in my duvet out of fear. Thunderstorms terrified me; they gave off an eerie vibe and always seemed to herald something dreadful.

Thunder had echoed through the night when my mother tragically took her own life. It was also present when my dad revealed his plan to bring Lola and Sapphire into our lives. It felt like a constant presence, mocking me and insinuating that my existence was nothing more than a cruel joke for others' amusement. I despised thunderstorms, yet I remained afraid of them. The fear would forever linger within me.

Suddenly, I heard the main door open, but there were no accompanying footsteps. The night grew more intimidating, but I summoned the courage to leave the couch I was