Chapter 48

• When I came to my senses again, I was walking aimlessly through the streets, as if I had forgotten the way home. Soon, the houses disappeared and I found myself entering an open field, following the sound of running water.
• The sting of the slap increased with each step, while a feeling of loneliness flooded my soul. I stopped at the edge of a stream and crouched down, cupping some cold water and splashing it on my face. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I stared at my own reflection in the water. Although not very clear, I could see the spot where William had hit me turning dark. How would I hide this bruise from my grandmother?
• "Are you okay?" I turned toward the voice. Liam was standing a few feet away from me, his arms crossed.