Chapter 20

I pulled open the curtains just as a loud bang shattered the quiet night, and a burst of light shot into the sky. Brilliant fireworks illuminated the entire night sky, their colors streaming down as sparks scattered around, followed closely by the next round of fireworks. The sky full of fireworks even lit up my room. Fireworks weren't allowed in Aureiville, so I hadn't seen any in many years. Though I felt a pang of awe, I kept my composure and stood by the window with my arms crossed until the display was over. Twenty minutes later, the fireworks finally ended. Darren's voice came through the phone. "Cassie, did you see it?" Only then did I realize the call was still connected. I replied coldly, "What?" Playing with a lighter in his hand, Darren said softly, "The fireworks were for you, Cassie. Just for you." "Oh, I glanced at them. They weren't that interesting, so I went back to bed," I said, my voice devoid of any warmth or happiness. "Is there anything else?" Darren was