Shattered Dreams Find Light by Niro Dane Frost 25

Shattered Dreams Find Light by Niro Dane Frost 25 Summary

In Chapter 25 of “Shattered Dreams Find Light,” Simone finds herself confronted by Carter, who insists that she join him and his family for a dinner, despite her initial reluctance and confusion about the situation. As he advances with a calm yet unsettling demeanor, Simone feels the pressure mounting, especially with her responsibilities towards her son, Ethan, who has just recovered from a health issue. Carter’s insistence that Ethan can accompany them and the offer of a nurse to stay with him creates a conflict within Simone, who is torn between her obligations as a mother and the expectations placed upon her.

Simone’s emotions fluctuate between frustration and determination as she stands her ground against Carter’s advances. Despite the temptation of his offer, she firmly declines, asserting her prior commitment. The tension escalates as Carter challenges her choices, provoking a mix of annoyance and vulnerability in her. Just as the atmosphere becomes charged, her friend Salma arrives, providing a welcome distraction and allowing Simone to momentarily escape the pressure of the situation.

After Carter leaves, Simone’s thoughts are interrupted by a phone call from Jasmine, which spirals into a confrontation filled with guilt and defensiveness. The conversation highlights Simone’s struggles and the weight of her circumstances, leaving her feeling both angry and helpless. However, her son Ethan’s innocent concern brings her back to reality, reminding her of her priorities and the love that fuels her determination to persevere.

As the evening unfolds, Simone prepares for the dinner, donning a stunning gown that rekindles a sense of her former self. The moment she sees her reflection, she feels a flicker of hope amidst the chaos. When Carter arrives with a nurse for Ethan, she experiences a complex mix of guilt and relief as she leaves her son in capable hands. As they head out together, Simone grapples with her emotions, recognizing that this evening could be a turning point—a chance to redefine her narrative and embrace new possibilities despite the shadows of her past. With a newfound resolve, she steps into the night, ready to reclaim her life and aspirations.

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**TITLE: Shattered Dreams Find Light by Niro Dane Frost**
**Chapter 25**

Simone shook her head, a frown deepening the lines on her forehead as she instinctively took a step back, her heart pounding. “You’re mistaken, I wasn’t informed about any of this,” she replied, her voice edged with confusion.

Carter advanced, his presence unwavering and his expression calm, almost too calm. “Yes, you weren’t,” he stated, his tone smooth yet insistent, as if he were delivering a well-rehearsed line. “But my uncle is coming over, and my mother believes it would be advantageous for you to join us, to properly meet the family.” He shrugged lightly, dismissing her concerns as if they were inconsequential.

Simone’s grip tightened around the file in her hand, her pulse quickening with unease. There was something unsettling in Carter’s gaze, a glimmer of something that set off alarm bells in her mind; it all felt too orchestrated, too convenient, as if she were merely a pawn in his game.

“I don’t think…” she began, her eyes flickering to Ethan, who was resting on the bed, the weight of her responsibilities pressing down on her. “My child, you know—”

“He can come with us,” Carter interjected smoothly, his voice dripping with false reassurance.

Her heart did a flip at the suggestion. “No. That wouldn’t be possible. He just got back from the hospital,” she replied, her voice firm yet laced with anxiety.

“Only because he’s feeling better, Simone.” His confidence was unnerving, making her knees wobble slightly. She had to grip the doorframe to steady herself against the onslaught of his unwavering gaze.

“If you truly believe he still needs rest, I can arrange for a nurse to stay with him tonight,” Carter continued, his eyes never leaving hers. “She’ll look after him while you attend to your work.”

The offer was undeniably tempting, a lifeline thrown in her direction, but Simone bristled at the thought of accepting help so readily. Then Ralph’s face flashed in her mind, a stark reminder of her own determination and resolve.

“Thanks, Mr. Wilde,” she replied, her voice steadying as she fought to maintain her ground. “But I have a prior commitment this evening.”

She noticed the way his jaw tightened, irritation flickering across his features before he responded.

“So you would choose pleasure over work?” His tone was sharp, cutting through the air and sending a wave of heat to her cheeks.

She shifted her weight, feeling the flush rise in her face. “It’s not like that,” she protested, her voice rising slightly as frustration bubbled within her.

Carter crossed his arms, a small, almost smug smile playing on his lips, as if he relished the game they were playing. “Then what is it?”

Annoyance surged inside her, her fists clenching at her sides, irritated that he could read her so effortlessly. Just then, Salma’s voice broke through the tension from behind her.

“Hey, ma’am.”

Simone turned, keeping the door partially open. “Hey Salma,” she greeted, forcing a smile that felt more like a mask. “Is it time?”

“Yes,” Salma confirmed with a nod, her presence a welcome distraction.

“Alright,” Simone said, pushing the door open wider. “Thanks for your time.”

“Yes, ma’am,” Salma replied, nodding at Carter as she made her way down the corridor, leaving Simone to deal with the tension hanging in the air.

“Who was that?” Carter asked, curiosity evident in his tone, his eyes narrowing slightly as he studied her.

Simone chose to ignore him, her focus shifting back to the file in her hand. “I’m assuming this is the file for the apartment?” She wiggled the folder for emphasis, trying to bring the conversation back to safer ground.

“Yes,” he replied, his demeanor unflinching, as if he were unfazed by her deflection. “And here’s your outfit.” He extended a bag toward her, a gesture that felt both generous and intrusive.

Simone narrowed her eyes, skepticism etched on her face. “You can’t force this on me, Mr. Wilde. I wasn’t informed about any of this,” she protested, her voice firm.

“I can have my mother call you,” he offered nonchalantly, as if that were the simplest solution. “Or you can take the clothes, get ready, and I’ll pick you up at seven with a nurse for your child.”

She let out a long sigh, realizing he wasn’t going to back down. The determination in his eyes was unmistakable, a challenge she could not ignore. Defeated, she snatched the bag from his hands, feeling a mix of frustration and resignation.

“Great,” he said, an infuriating grin spreading across his face. “See you at seven.” Without waiting for her response, he turned and walked away, leaving her feeling even more frustrated and cornered.

Simone gritted her teeth as she slammed the door shut behind him, the sound echoing in the silence that followed.

“Mom?” Ethan’s soft voice broke through her thoughts, pulling her back to reality.

“Oh, crap,” she muttered, turning to face her son, guilt washing over her. “Hey, baby, sorry I woke you.”

Ethan rubbed his eyes as he sat up, his innocent gaze searching hers. “It’s okay.”

Setting the bag on the couch, she dropped the file beside it and approached him. “Are you hungry?” she asked, hoping to shift the focus away from her earlier conversation.

“Yes,” he replied eagerly, his face lighting up. “I want Mac and cheese.”

“Oh! Nice choice!” she exclaimed, her spirits lifting slightly as she grabbed her phone to place an order, grateful for the distraction.

Not long after, the food arrived, and as Ethan happily dug into his meal and watched TV, Simone returned to her work, scribbling down a list of questions she intended to ask Carter. The rhythmic tapping of her pen was a calming sound, grounding her in the chaos of her thoughts.

Just as she finished, her phone buzzed, and she glanced at the screen to see Jasmine’s name flashing ominously.

“Hey,” she answered, her tone flat, bracing herself for the inevitable confrontation.

“Hey, where are you?” Jasmine’s voice was laced with concern, a stark contrast to the tension simmering beneath the surface.

“Safe,” Simone shot back, her sharpness evident, though she didn’t mean to sound so cold.

“Look, I’m sorry about earlier,” Jasmine said, her voice softening, but Simone could hear the underlying frustration. “But what am I supposed to do? My house has been trashed twice and you—”

“Me what?” Simone interrupted, her irritation flaring as she felt the familiar weight of guilt settle on her shoulders.

“Nothing,” Jasmine sighed, exasperation evident in her tone. “I just wanted to make sure you’re okay. I shouldn’t have told you to leave when I know you’ve got nowhere else to go. But you have a job, and you can take care of yourself.”

The words struck Simone like a blow, but she refused to let them affect her. “I’m not even going to comment on that,” she replied, trying to keep her voice steady.

“Because you know it’s true!” Jasmine snapped back, her frustration spilling over. “You don’t understand what it’s like to be in debt and have your home ransacked.”

“A debt that I technically paid off?” Simone’s voice rose slightly, frustration bubbling over as she felt the weight of Jasmine’s accusations. “Your whoever stole my money!”

“And I was going to give it back!” Jasmine retorted, her voice rising in anger.

Simone exhaled sharply, rubbing her forehead in an attempt to dispel the tension that was tightening around her chest. “I’m not doing this with you, Jasmine.”

“Fine!” Jasmine snapped, and the call ended abruptly, leaving Simone staring at her phone in disbelief.

Simone scoffed, tossing her phone aside, feeling a mix of anger and helplessness.

“Are you okay, Mommy?” Ethan asked softly, concern etched on his small face, his innocence a stark contrast to the turmoil within her.

“Yes, baby,” she replied, forcing a tired smile as she walked over to the couch, grateful for his unwavering support.

She took the file, pulled out the documents, and meticulously reviewed everything, her focus sharpening as she sought clarity amidst the chaos. When she was satisfied that everything was legitimate, she signed her name with a sense of finality, a small victory in a sea of uncertainty.

Then she opened the bag and gasped.

It was a stunning turquoise gown with an open neckline, adorned with delicate black stones that sparkled in the light. The sleeves were long and sheer, and there were matching black heels that made her heart flutter with excitement and trepidation.

She hadn’t worn a gown in what felt like forever, and the sight of it stirred something deep within her.

“Wow, Mommy, that’s so beautiful!” Ethan exclaimed, his eyes wide with admiration, his enthusiasm infectious.

She giggled, a blush creeping onto her cheeks as she held up the gown. “Thanks, baby. I got it from a… friend. I’ll be going out for a work dinner but will be back soon.”

Ethan seemed unfazed by her words. “Can I watch Moana all night?”

“You still need some rest, but you can watch until ten,” she replied, her heart swelling with love for her son.

“Yes!” He threw his hands in the air, celebrating his small victory, and she couldn’t help but laugh, feeling a wave of warmth wash over her.

Simone craved a long, warm bath, and that was exactly what she prepared for herself, eager for a moment of peace.

The lavender soap provided by the hotel smelled heavenly, enveloping her in a soothing embrace as she sank into the warm water, scrubbing her body gently. She felt all her worries melt away, the calm she had needed all day enveloping her, easing her mind. After rinsing off and washing her hair, she noticed that the blonde dye was starting to fade, a reminder that she needed to take care of herself.

“Time to redye,” she murmured to herself as she stepped out of the bathroom, feeling a renewed sense of purpose.

Since she didn’t have her makeup, she slipped into the gown, letting the fabric hug her curves, and styled her hair into a neat bun, ready to face the evening ahead.

When she looked in the mirror, she was taken aback by her reflection. The gown fit perfectly, making her look elegant and expensive, a fleeting glimpse of the woman she used to be.

Just as she was about to put on the shoes, a knock echoed through the room, jolting her from her thoughts.

She opened the door to find Carter standing there, accompanied by a young woman. His eyes widened, lingering a moment too long on her figure, and warmth flooded her cheeks, a mix of embarrassment and defiance.

“Hello, ma’am, I’m Camellia,” the young woman introduced herself with a bright smile, her energy infectious.

Carter cleared his throat, regaining his composure. “This is Camellia, the nurse nanny,” he said, his tone now more formal.

“Pediatric home nurse,” Camellia corrected gently, her smile unwavering.

“Right,” Carter chuckled, glancing between the two of them, the tension in the air shifting slightly.

Simone studied Camellia carefully. With her red hair and freckles scattered across her nose, she appeared petite, and Simone couldn’t help but wonder about her experience.

As if reading her thoughts, Camellia reassured her, “Don’t worry, ma’am, your child will be safe with me. I’ve been doing this for five years.”

A wave of guilt washed over Simone, but she nodded, leading Camellia inside. When Camellia spotted Ethan, she waved enthusiastically, and he waved back, a shy smile spreading across his face.

“This is Ethan, and he just recovered from anemia,” Simone explained, gesturing to the table. “His medications are over there. He can watch TV until ten. If anything happens, just call me.” She quickly scribbled her number on a piece of paper, her heart racing at the thought of leaving him behind.

“You have nothing to worry about, ma’am,” Camellia said with a reassuring smile. “Go and enjoy yourself.”

Simone nodded, planting a quick kiss on Ethan’s forehead, feeling a mix of guilt and relief. “Be a good boy,” she said, stepping out of the room, her heart heavy yet hopeful.

Outside, Carter adjusted his jacket, extending his hand toward her. “Shall we?”

“Yes,” she replied, ignoring the gesture as she took a deep breath, steeling herself for the evening ahead.

Together, they walked out of the hotel, flanked by his guards, a sense of anticipation swirling in the air, the night stretching out before them like an uncharted territory.

“You look divine,” Carter said softly once they were settled in the car, his voice low and sincere.

“Thanks,” she murmured, avoiding his gaze, her heart racing with uncertainty.

The journey was steeped in silence, tension hanging between them like a taut string. It was only when the car came to a stop that she realized they had arrived at Michelle’s house, the grand structure looming ahead.

“Baby!” Alexa exclaimed, rushing out to embrace Carter, her exuberance a stark contrast to Simone’s apprehension.

Simone quickly averted her gaze, her heart pounding as her phone dinged with a new message. Grateful for the distraction, she checked it, her heart racing with unease.

“You think you can blackmail and get away with it? I’ll make you regret messing with me!”

Simone blinked in confusion. Who the hell was this?

As she stepped into the evening, her heart raced with a mixture of trepidation and exhilaration. The stunning gown she wore felt like a second skin, a reminder of the woman she once was before life’s burdens weighed her down. Yet, beneath the surface, a simmering anxiety lingered; the shadows of her past and the uncertainty of her future loomed large. Carter’s presence beside her, both intimidating and strangely comforting, stirred a whirlwind of emotions within her. She had fought so hard to protect her son and herself, and now, as she faced the unknown, it was clear that she could no longer cling to her shattered dreams. The night ahead promised both challenges and revelations, and for the first time in a long while, she felt a flicker of hope igniting within her.

In the quiet moments that followed, as they navigated the labyrinth of social expectations and familial ties, Simone began to realize that perhaps this evening was more than just a forced encounter—it was an opportunity for rebirth. The weight of Jasmine’s harsh words still echoed in her mind, but they no longer held the same power over her. With each step she took, she felt her resolve solidify; she would not allow her past to define her future. Instead, she would embrace the light that flickered at the end of this tumultuous tunnel. Surrounded by the warmth of her son’s laughter and the promise of new beginnings, Simone understood that shattered dreams could be the very foundation upon which new aspirations were built. As she glanced at Carter, a man who represented both danger and possibility, she took a deep breath, ready to reclaim her narrative and step boldly into the life she was destined to create.

Conclusion

In the aftermath of the evening’s events, Simone stood at the precipice of change, the echoes of her past intertwining with the possibilities of her future. The stunning gown she wore, once a symbol of her insecurities, now felt like armor, empowering her to confront the challenges that lay ahead. As she navigated the complexities of Carter’s world and the expectations that came with it, she began to shed the weight of guilt and fear that had burdened her for so long. The laughter of her son, Ethan, resonated in her heart, reminding her of the strength she possessed as a mother and the fierce determination to create a better life for both of them. With every step into this new chapter, she felt a flicker of hope igniting within her, illuminating the path toward a future where she could reclaim her dreams.

As the night unfolded, Simone embraced the notion that shattered dreams do not signify the end, but rather the beginning of something beautiful and transformative. The harsh words of Jasmine faded into the background, their sting diminished by the realization that she had the power to rewrite her story. Surrounded by the warmth of newfound connections and the support of those who believed in her, she understood that she was not alone in this journey. With Carter by her side, a figure who represented both uncertainty and potential, she was ready to face whatever challenges awaited her. In that moment, she chose to embrace the light, to let it guide her through the darkness, and to forge a life filled with purpose, resilience, and love. The future was no longer a daunting specter; it was a canvas waiting for her to paint her dreams anew.

What to Expect in Next Chapter?

**What to Expect in Next Chapter?**

As Simone steps into the grand house, the air thick with anticipation and the scent of polished wood and fresh flowers, the evening unfolds with unexpected twists that will challenge her resolve and redefine her relationships. The dynamics with Carter are set to shift as they navigate through the labyrinth of family expectations and hidden agendas. Will Simone find the strength to stand her ground against the pressures that threaten to overwhelm her, or will she succumb to the intricacies of a world she has long tried to escape? The tension between her and Carter is palpable, and their interactions are poised to reveal deeper layers of both their characters, forcing Simone to confront not only her past but also her desires for the future.

Moreover, the arrival of Carter’s family brings with it a host of new characters, each with their own motives and secrets. As Simone mingles with them, her instincts will be put to the test. Can she trust anyone in this new world, or will she find herself caught in a web of deceit? The unexpected message she received before the event hints at lurking dangers that could unravel everything she has worked so hard to protect. With Ethan’s health still fragile and the specter of Jasmine’s accusations looming, Simone must navigate this precarious situation with grace and determination. The stakes are higher than ever, and the choices she makes could alter the course of her life forever.

With the night promising both revelations and confrontations, readers can expect to witness Simone’s evolution as she grapples with her identity and the choices that lie ahead. Will she embrace the light of new beginnings, or will the shadows of her past pull her back into darkness? The next chapter is bound to be a whirlwind of emotions, filled with suspense and the hope of redemption, as Simone fights to reclaim her narrative in a world that seems determined to keep her in the shadows.