Strings of Fate

Strings

June 11th.

This date has been etched into my memory for thirteen years. On this day, my mother left my dad and I. She walked out after seeing her red string—a mystical connection to a man who happened to stroll into her coffee shop late at night. That night, while she packed her bags I peaked outside the window where a black lexus was waiting outside. I was ten at the time, and the look of despair in my dad's eyes as he watched her leave without turning back is something I can never forget.

"Everything will be okay, Audrey. I promise," he said softly as he tucked me into bed. That same night, I heard his sobs coming from the living room, some part of me knew he was waiting for her to realize she was making a mistake. She never came back.

I stare at my reflection in the bathroom mirror, feeling the weight of history press down on me. I inherited her ember-colored almond eyes and fair skin, while my dad's jet-black hair is stark against my own features. I see her in my face, a constant reminder of what was lost.

A buzz from my phone interrupts my thoughts.

*Hey boo, ready for tonight?*

It's Jazmin. She's been my best friend since middle school, she knows this day is tough for me and every year, she does everything she can to help me through it. Tonight is no different.

*Almost done x.*

I set up my makeup kit and let the soothing tones of Twenty One Pilots fill the room. I apply my makeup with practiced ease—winged eyeliner, blush to highlight my cheekbones, and a sharp red lip. Even though my lips are small, the look is bold. My high cheekbones and round nose seem to come alive under the makeup. Jazmin invited me to some new social club in town, where she'll be with her latest fling. Palade City is known for its vibrant nightlife—towering buildings and neon lights. But it's also infamous for being one of the first places where the red strings appeared.

A century ago, people began to notice red strings tied to their left pinkies. At first, it was seen as hallucinations since only showed up to some people first, but the strings were real. After a time they were visible to the person and everyone around them. Theories sprang up everywhere—some said it was divine intervention, others thought it was a scientific anomaly. Whatever it was, it changed everything.

I glance at my own string, floating aimlessly, disconnected. I curse softly.

Ivan and I have been together for two years. Our mutual disdain for the strings brought us together. He didnt believe in it and thought love was a decision, not something dictated by fate.

I grab my keys and head out, giving a brief goodbye to Peter, the doorman.

The night is colder than expected, so I wrap my favorite blue scarf tighter around my neck. I feel a pang of regret for choosing a black skirt and a white blouse with open-toed heels instead of jeans. I should have checked the weather first. At 5'4", dressing to impress takes effort. If I'm going to a high-profile social club with Jazmin's new boy and pretending everything is fine, I might as well look the part.

I text Ivan, letting him know I'll be home late and asking if he needs help with the move. We recently decided to move in together, and he's been packing up his things. This is a big step for us as we cant get married because Palade City only allows marriage for those with connected strings, but that's fine. We're committed to each other, and that's what matters.

I reach the club's entrance, the pulsating bass of music spilling out into the night. The hostess greets me with a warm smile as I step inside, my heart pounding.

"Over here!" Jazmin called out as I approached the table. She looked stunning, as usual, her fiery red hair catching the dim light of the club and her bright green eyes twinkling with mischief.