A Dream Interrupted, A Life Reclaimed

Firm felt heavy in my hand. It was more than just paper;

ction she had, putting her own health last to make sure I got this shot. The stress of it all, the long

tightly under my arm. The air smelled like success and new beginnings. I fel

e steady despite the frantic beating of my heart.

old smile, typed my name into her computer. Her smile f

ke," she said. "The new junior ar

er right here." I pulled it from my bag, the crisp paper now

real interest. "The position is filled

. The daughter of Councilman Hayes, a man whose nam

my voice rising slightly. "I accepted this offer

"There's nothing I can do. You'll have to deal with it." She t

usy lobby fading into a dull roar in my ears. I backed aw

my thoughts. That's when I heard their voices. Chelsea Hayes, her laugh ligh

, her voice dripping with admiration. "Daddy wa

re. Chelsea, looking smug and triumphant, and Daniel, my Dan

as silk. "I told you I'd take care of it. That p

d taken my dream, the one my mother d

rage. I stepped out from the alcove,

ker of panic crossed his face before it was replaced

h fury. "I was supposed to start my job today. The job y

ve, almost bored. "Ava, let's not

. "It seems pretty simple to me. You betrayed me

a needed the job. Her father is an important man. This helps us. And besides," he added, his

supposed to love, but as an inconvenience, a problem to be managed.

The love I thought we had was a lie. My future,

adness. I pulled the engagement ring off my finger, the diamond

st with a soft thud before clatte

ice clear and strong despite the st

dn't care. I walked out of that building and didn't stop. I walked until the city blurr

osed a detailed, anonymous complaint to the architectural licensing board. I detailed ever

mise. A promise to myself and to my mother's memory. T