They Said Surrender, I Said No

Just before launch, Brooke gave Austin a glance. Silently, they unbuckled and ran, leaving me frozen in the seat. Austin stood behind the yellow line, smirking. “Brooke says you’re too timid, Tessa. Face your fears. Have fun alone!”

The machine roared, hurling me skyward. Wind whipped past as Brooke doubled over laughing, snapping photos of my terror. Austin steadied her phone, his indulgent smile saying it all: Don’t tease her; she’s pitiful.

Yes, I was a coward. For twenty years, this was their “help.” Brooke baited stray dogs, leaving me screaming as Austin lifted her to safety.