Duplicity

Violence had set me free.

Exposed his vile acts.

But…

There's always a but.

Maybe I don't want freedom.

Not when I had been cradled in his palm for so long.

Not when he kept me so tightly at his hip.

I can't admit it.

Can't let myself feel.

Not yet.

I am told there is healing.

That I can get through this.

That I can forget.

Maybe I don't want to forget.

Not when I had finally tasted power.

Mikey

Violence had set her free.

Exposed his vile acts.

But…

There's always a but.

I'm locked away.

Crave freedom.

But I also yearn for captivity.

To be cradled in her palm.

To be on her hip.

They say they can fix me.

Reform me.

Help me forget what I did.

Someday I will get through this, so they say.

I want to forget.

Ambivalence is part of a four-book series that journeys through Laurel Wyatt and her twin brothers lives, from childhood through womanhood, exploring the long-term effects of trauma.

Ambivalence, the first installment follows Laurel's struggles through her teen years as she tries to cope with the abuse thrust onto her, while struggling to be a "good girl." Lost in secrecy, dedication and obedience, she quickly loses herself, spiraling headfirst into a world of lies, silence, and ultimate violence.

Book two, titled Duplicity focuses on the aftermath of the savage events that close out Ambivalence.

The Tough Girl, and the Party Girl, respectively, evolve to protect an already shattered soul.

Book three, titled Resolve, dives into Laurel's struggle to find her strength and grow from the unspeakable trauma she suffered at the hands of men.

She struggles with identity, seeking womanhood at the hands of those who damaged her and what that entitles.

Book four, titled Aftermath focuses primarily on Laurel's sister, Ava and her struggles in navigating life following savage loss. Ava hunts for love, acceptance, and a place to call home.

Meanwhile her male counterpart Max seeks love.

Wild, uncaged, requited love.

Taking it if he must