Foreword
College is a time for growth, freedom, lust, and parties. The place to have the time of your life. But one disturbing encounter leaves Willow Brookes spiraling as she tries to make sense of what happened to her. Told in five parts, this novel follows the story of a young woman who learns how to overcome fear on her journey towards healing. This story is unlike anything I've ever written before. It's honest. It's true. I can relate to it on a personal level, and it touches my heart and soul deeply. Finally. I can tell a story that is mine. And I hope you all can join me on this journey. Thank you for sharing this experience with me and for accompanying me as I begin writing again. It's been more than 4 years, but I am ecstatic to be back! I love you all, from the bottom of my heart.
The music pounds, a physical force vibrating through the room and your body. Sweat slicks your skin as you lose yourself in the rhythm, your hips swaying unapologetically. Around you, bodies move in a collective release, smiles wide in the flashing strobe lights.
"Aye! I see you miss twenty-one!" Michaela yells over the music, a wide grin on her face.
You laugh, accepting the shot she offers. The liquid burns, followed by a surge of buzzing energy. Leyna wraps an arm around you, yelling something into the night that gets lost in the sound. Michaela joins in, and you're caught between your friends, the alcohol making your head light, a soft smile on your lips. This is it. This is 21.
