Shattered Dreams Find Light by Niro Dane Frost 28 Summary
In “Shattered Dreams Find Light,” Simone faces a painful confrontation at a gathering where her past insecurities resurface. As she approaches the group, Sydney, a former acquaintance, mocks her appearance and accuses her of stealing Lewis, intensifying Simone’s feelings of humiliation and anxiety. The laughter from Sydney’s friends amplifies her shame, prompting her to consider fleeing the situation. Despite her resolve to leave, Sydney blocks her path, further escalating the tension. Simone’s internal struggle is palpable as she battles feelings of inadequacy, desperately seeking a way to escape the emotional turmoil.
As the confrontation unfolds, Sydney’s accusations cut deep, leaving Simone feeling exposed and vulnerable. The weight of shame washes over her as she grapples with the reality of her situation. However, amidst the chaos, a flicker of determination ignites within her. She asserts her need to leave, showcasing a newfound strength that contrasts with the frightened woman Sydney attempts to portray. The moment serves as a turning point for Simone, as she begins to reclaim her narrative and reject the labels placed upon her by others.
Returning to her hotel room, Simone seeks solace in the routine of her life, but the shadows of her experiences linger. She finds brief comfort in her interactions with Camellia and her son, Ethan, yet the emotional scars from the previous night weigh heavily on her. The juxtaposition of her personal struggles against the vibrant backdrop of New York City emphasizes her feelings of loneliness and isolation. As she navigates her complex emotions, Simone reflects on the choices she must make, particularly regarding her relationship with Carter, which hints at a potential new beginning.
The chapter culminates in a moment of introspection for Simone, as she prepares to face Lewis and Sydney once more. The fear that once paralyzed her transforms into a fierce determination to reclaim her story. With the love of her son as her anchor, she steps forward to confront her past, ready to shatter the remnants of her old self and embrace the possibility of new dreams. The anticipation of the impending confrontation sets the stage for a dramatic exploration of resilience and empowerment, leaving readers eager to witness Simone’s next steps in her journey toward healing and self-acceptance.
Continue Regular Chapter Reading Below
**Shattered Dreams Find Light by Niro Dane Frost**
Simone inhaled deeply, forcing a smile onto her lips as she approached the gathering. “Hey, hi,” she greeted, her voice a fragile blend of feigned optimism and underlying anxiety.
Sydney, with her sharp, scrutinizing gaze, stepped forward, a sneer curling her lips. “You still haven’t changed,” she observed, her eyes scanning Simone’s figure with disdain. “Still the same awkward-looking woman. What pathetic loser are you here to see?”
A chorus of laughter erupted from the women surrounding Sydney, each cruel chuckle twisting the knife deeper into Simone’s gut. The humiliation she felt was almost unbearable, a heavy cloak of shame draping over her shoulders as Sydney’s words echoed in her mind.
“I can’t endure this any longer,” she thought, her heart pounding in her chest as she turned to flee. “Have a great night, Sydney,” she managed to whisper, her voice barely audible.
But Sydney wasn’t done with her yet. She stepped directly into Simone’s path at the hotel entrance, blocking any chance of escape. “I’m not finished with you,” she declared, her tone thick with malice.
Simone instinctively wrapped her arms around herself, acutely aware of the stains on her gown and how it clung unflatteringly to her body. “I need to go, Sydney,” she said, her voice quivering slightly, betraying her fear.
Sydney turned to her friends, the smirk still plastered on her face. “You know, Simone here stole Lewis from me? And now she’s blackmailing him?”
“What?” the women gasped in unison, disbelief etched across their faces as their eyes darted between one another.
“You just won’t let him go,” Sydney continued, her voice sharp and unyielding. “Now you’re broke, and you think this blackmail will actually work? Shame on you, Simone!”
Heat flooded Simone’s cheeks as shame washed over her like a relentless tide. She knew that if she lingered any longer, the tears threatening to spill would betray her. Straightening her posture, she turned toward the exit, desperate to escape.
“I really need to go, Sydney,” she repeated, her voice steadier this time, a flicker of resolve igniting within her.
“Still the same scared cat,” Sydney laughed, finally stepping aside with a mocking flourish. “You’ll be hearing from our lawyers.”
The laughter of the group echoed behind her as Simone slipped into the hotel, her heart racing wildly. She hurried to the elevator, jabbing the button for her floor with urgency. It wasn’t until the doors closed, sealing her away from the world outside, that she let out a shaky breath, her hands trembling.
“I can’t believe this is happening,” she thought, glancing at her phone. She dialed Jasmine’s number, but it went straight to voicemail. Frustrated, she opted for a quick message instead.
“Text me when you see this. It’s about Lewis,” she typed, hitting send just as the elevator doors opened to her floor.
Rushing to her room, she knocked lightly on the door. “Hey Camellia, it’s me,” she called out, her voice slightly strained, betraying her inner turmoil.
A moment later, the door swung open to reveal Camellia, her bright smile faltering as she took in Simone’s disheveled appearance. “Miss Sacks, welcome!” she exclaimed, but her eyes widened in concern. “What happened?”
“Nothing,” Simone replied quickly, forcing a smile that didn’t quite reach her eyes as she stepped inside. “Just had a wild night.”
She almost chuckled at her own unintentional joke, but the humor fizzled out as she noticed the worry etched on Camellia’s face.
“Are you sure you’re okay?” Camellia asked, her voice laced with genuine concern.
“Hundred percent,” Simone insisted, glancing toward the bed where Ethan lay peacefully. “How was he?”
“He was gentle,” Camellia said shyly, a soft smile appearing on her lips. “It was fun.”
“Great. Thank you again,” Simone replied, her heart heavy with the weight of her own troubles.
“My pleasure,” Camellia said, gathering her belongings from the couch. “Hope to see you again.”
“Hope not,” Simone thought, but kept the words to herself.
Camellia waved goodbye as she left the room, and Simone returned the gesture, locking the door behind her.
“Damn,” she muttered under her breath, quickly shedding the gown that had become a symbol of her humiliation.
The day had spiraled into chaos, worse than she could have ever anticipated, but she refused to wallow in it. With determination, she made her way to the bathroom, indulging in a long, soothing shower. The warm water cascaded over her, washing away the remnants of the night’s shame. After wrapping a towel around herself, she tiptoed over to Ethan, who was sleeping soundly. She pressed a gentle kiss to his forehead, feeling a small flicker of warmth in her heart.
Standing by the window, she gazed out at the sprawling city of New York below. The scene was a juxtaposition of fast cars and flashing lights, a vibrant world that only emphasized her solitude. She tightened the towel around her, a wave of loneliness crashing over her.
A sudden knock on the door startled her, and she walked cautiously to the peephole. Her heart raced when she saw Carter standing there.
“Mr. Wilde?” she called out, keeping the door firmly shut.
“Simone, open up,” he urged, his voice low and insistent, sending a shiver down her spine.
She glanced down at her towel, biting her lip nervously. “I can’t, sir. Sorry.”
“I’ll stay here all night if you don’t,” he replied, and for some inexplicable reason, she believed him.
“I’m not… decent,” she managed to say, her heart pounding in her chest.
He sighed, tapping the door lightly. “Okay. Guess I’ll just ask my questions here.”
The warmth of his voice sent shivers down her spine, and she leaned against the door, almost as if she could feel the rhythm of his heartbeat through the wood.
“I didn’t know when you left,” Carter said softly, his tone almost vulnerable.
“I figured you guys needed time,” she replied quietly, her heart aching with unspoken words.
Silence hung between them for a moment, and she thought he hadn’t heard her until he tapped the door again.
“Oh Simone,” he growled, his voice low and filled with a yearning she could almost taste. “I can’t control this…”
Heat surged through her, but she fought to keep her voice steady. “You need to go, Mr. Wilde.”
He chuckled, a deep, rich sound that ignited something dangerous within her. “Sugar, I’m not that drunk. Open up.”
Simone gasped, her heart racing. The way he had addressed her sent her spiraling back to five years ago, to a time when everything had been so different. She glanced at Ethan, and a shudder ran through her.
“I’m smarter now,” she reminded herself. “I won’t make the same mistake.”
Clearing her throat, she spoke firmly, “You need to leave now, Mr. Wilde. Good night.”
“Simone, no!” he slurred, his voice dripping with frustration. “Simone?”
She hesitated, caught in the moment, but after what felt like an eternity, she finally heard the sound of footsteps retreating.
When she dared to peek through the peephole, she saw Carter being escorted away by his security team.
A heavy sigh escaped her lips, relief flooding her, yet it was tinged with an unexpected sadness.
“You don’t have a chance,” she murmured to herself as she settled into bed beside Ethan.
Staring up at the white ceiling, she listened to the distant sounds of New York until sleep finally claimed her.
The next morning, a shrill ringing jolted her awake. Groaning, she fumbled for her phone, still heavy with sleep.
“Hello?” she mumbled, squinting at the screen.
“Simone, hey,” came Jasmine’s voice, bright yet apologetic.
Simone sat up instantly, her mind racing. “Jasmine, what the hell? I’ve been calling you since yesterday!”
“I’m sorry, I was busy,” Jasmine replied softly, a hint of regret in her tone.
“Why did you send the piece to Lewis? He’s threatening—”
“I’ll explain everything when we see,” Jasmine interrupted. “Is five pm okay?”
The anger that had surged within Simone began to dissipate, replaced by a wave of worry. “Okay.”
“You can go back to my house; I went there to arrange some things. See you later,” Jasmine said before hanging up.
Simone rubbed her eyes, frustration bubbling up again. Jasmine hadn’t even given her a chance to mention her own house.
“Good morning, Mom,” came Ethan’s small voice, pulling her from her thoughts.
She turned to him, her heart swelling with affection. “Morning, baby! Sleep well?”
“Yes,” Ethan replied with a bright smile. “Mel was nice.”
Simone raised an eyebrow, curious. “Mel?”
“Camellia,” Ethan giggled. “She said I can call her that.”
“Oh, that’s so sweet!” she exclaimed, pulling him into a warm hug. “I’m so glad you like her.”
“Is she coming today?” Ethan asked, his eyes sparkling with excitement.
Before Simone could respond, her phone buzzed with a message from an unknown number.
“Hey, we’ll be going out to shop for furniture for your new apartment. See you by ten. Carter.”
A blush crept up her cheeks as she gripped the phone tightly, her mind racing back to their encounter the previous night.
“Can I watch Moana again today?” Ethan asked, pulling her back to reality.
“Yes, yes,” she said quickly, rising from the bed. “Mommy has things to do, so let’s get ready.”
“Okay, Mommy,” he replied cheerfully.
She helped Ethan out of bed, getting him ready for the day, ordered breakfast, showered, and called for Salma once more.
When Salma arrived, Simone greeted her with a smile. “Hey, I will be out for an hour or so.”
“Alright,” Salma said, dropping her items on the couch.
Simone slipped back into the gown she had worn before, leaning down to kiss Ethan’s forehead. “Be a good boy, okay? Mommy will be right back.”
“Okay,” he said, his face lighting up.
With a sense of urgency, she hurried out, catching a cab to Jasmine’s house. As she entered, she was relieved to find the place spotless, just as Jasmine had promised.
She made a beeline for her room, quickly changing into a black jumpsuit, grabbing some of her clothes and Ethan’s, and dashed out again.
With determination, she hailed another cab and made her way back to the hotel.
“Thank you,” she said to the driver, paying him before stepping inside the hotel once more.
As she approached the elevator, her heart sank when she froze in place.
There stood Lewis and Sydney in the lobby, scanning the area until their eyes landed on her.
“That’s her!” Sydney hissed, pointing an accusing finger.
Lewis turned, his expression unreadable, and together they began to walk toward her.
Simone felt a rush of panic as she braced herself for the confrontation ahead, her heart pounding in her chest.
In the aftermath of the tumultuous night, Simone stood on the precipice of her own emotional rebirth. The laughter that once echoed in her ears now faded into a distant memory, replaced by the resolute beat of her heart as she faced the reality of her circumstances. The confrontation with Sydney had stripped away the last vestiges of her self-doubt, forcing her to confront the shadows of her past. No longer would she allow the weight of judgment and ridicule to dictate her worth. As she prepared to face Lewis and Sydney, she felt an unexpected surge of strength coursing through her veins—a promise to herself that she would no longer be the victim of her shattered dreams. The warmth of Ethan’s love enveloped her, reminding her of the resilience that had always resided within.
With each step toward the confrontation, Simone embraced the uncertainty that lay ahead. The fear that once paralyzed her now transformed into a fierce determination to reclaim her narrative. She had weathered too many storms to shy away from this moment. The echoes of past mistakes served not as chains but as stepping stones guiding her toward a brighter future. As she locked eyes with Lewis and Sydney, she felt a sense of clarity wash over her—this was her story, and she would write it on her own terms. No longer a mere spectator in her life, Simone was ready to shatter the remnants of her old self and step boldly into the light, where new dreams awaited.
**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the tension mounts, readers can anticipate an explosive confrontation between Simone and the duo of Lewis and Sydney. With emotions running high and past grievances resurfacing, the stakes have never been higher. Will Simone find the strength to stand her ground against her tormentors, or will she crumble under the weight of their accusations? The air is thick with unresolved feelings and unspoken truths, promising a dramatic showdown that could change everything for Simone.
Additionally, the presence of Carter looms large, and his unexpected invitation to shop for furniture hints at a deeper connection that may complicate Simone’s already tumultuous life. Will she allow herself to explore this burgeoning relationship, or will her past with Lewis and Sydney keep her shackled to her insecurities? As Simone navigates her chaotic world, readers will be left questioning whether she can break free from the shadows of her past and embrace the light of new beginnings. The next chapter promises to be a whirlwind of emotions, revelations, and choices that will ultimately define Simone’s path forward.
Conclusion
In the wake of her harrowing confrontation, Simone emerged not only as a survivor but as a woman reborn. The laughter and scorn that once haunted her now served as a catalyst for transformation, igniting a fire within her that could not be extinguished. With every step she took toward Lewis and Sydney, she shed the layers of shame and doubt that had long clung to her. The love for her son, Ethan, became her guiding light, illuminating the path toward self-acceptance and empowerment. No longer would she be defined by the whispers of her past; instead, she would forge a new identity rooted in resilience and hope.
As she steeled herself for the impending confrontation, Simone felt a profound sense of clarity wash over her. The weight of her shattered dreams no longer felt like a burden but rather a testament to her strength. She was ready to face the truth, to reclaim her narrative, and to embrace the possibilities that lay ahead. The shadows of her past, once a source of fear, now stood as reminders of her journey—a journey that had led her to this pivotal moment. With newfound determination, she stepped forward, ready to shatter the remnants of who she once was and to embrace the light of new beginnings that awaited her.
What to Expect in Next Chapter?
**What to Expect in the Next Chapter?**
As the tension mounts, readers can anticipate an explosive confrontation between Simone and the duo of Lewis and Sydney. With emotions running high and past grievances resurfacing, the stakes have never been higher. Will Simone find the strength to stand her ground against her tormentors, or will she crumble under the weight of their accusations? The air is thick with unresolved feelings and unspoken truths, promising a dramatic showdown that could change everything for Simone. The moment she faces Lewis and Sydney could become a turning point, revealing not just her resilience but also the hidden depths of her character.
Additionally, the presence of Carter looms large, and his unexpected invitation to shop for furniture hints at a deeper connection that may complicate Simone’s already tumultuous life. Will she allow herself to explore this burgeoning relationship, or will her past with Lewis and Sydney keep her shackled to her insecurities? As Simone navigates her chaotic world, readers will be left questioning whether she can break free from the shadows of her past and embrace the light of new beginnings. The next chapter promises to be a whirlwind of emotions, revelations, and choices that will ultimately define Simone’s path forward—setting the stage for a compelling exploration of love, self-discovery, and the courage to confront one’s demons.

Sara Lili is a daring romance writer who turns icy landscapes into scenes of fiery passion. She loves crafting hot love stories while embracing the chill of Iceland’s breathtaking cold.