Chapter 19

My mask is made of linen, spreading under the surface of fragility and grooves that deform my skin. Even though it is such a resistant material, there are still times, like this, when little is needed for my performance to fail and my mask to disassemble.

"If I don't remember, I'll never have a normal life.

"And that's what you really want? "Candice asks softly, wrapping one of the strands of her hair on one of her fingers. "Being a normal person, I mean...

"That's what I need to be.

Candice takes a deep breath and closes her eyes for a moment. Releasing her hands around her body, she shakes her head and smiles at me. "If you want to know my opinion, you'll get screwed with this stupid plan.

Your words don't affect me emotionally. They just don't make any difference. I knew from the beginning what the consequences would be, and my daily nightmares do not allow me to forget.

“But... “She walks back to the door and opens it. Charlie appears in the h