Fallen (The Lasting Impressions #1)

Prologue

Jade

I think I’m ready.

No, I am ready.

I know exactly what to do. This is what I’ve worked so hard to achieve.

I look at myself in my full length mirror seeing the business woman I know I am. The woman I envisaged I would become. A huge sense of pride makes me smile.

I’ve styled my hair into an elegant ponytail, curling the ends to give it some bounce, and put on a light coverage of makeup with blush tinting my cheeks and a soft dusky pink lipstick. I want to make an impression but I don’t want to look unapproachable.

Working somewhere like Bright Investments has been my dream for as long as I can remember. Ever since that first trip to London with Mum when I was ten, and I saw the towering skyscrapers, smartly dressed businessmen and women rushing through the chaos of the city. I was awestruck. I pictured myself working in one of those impressive buildings and that was that. My goal was set and I worked hard; finally, I can say I am one of those businesswomen. Not everyone understands my passion, but they don’t have to.

I brush my hands down my sides, straightening the material of my gray shift dress, then slip into my prize Louboutin’s. My shoes have, and always will be my Achilles’ heel. I’d happily eat noodles for a few months just so I can afford a pair of Jimmy Choos.

I’m a shoe slut, sue me.

I jump as something falls from my wardrobe. As I find the culprit and place the box that fell back on the shelf, a glint of something catches my attention. I bend to pick up the white glittering wings, and gently stroke my fingers over the edges at the memory of the last time I wore them.

It was one of the best nights of my life until it wasn’t.

My gaze moves to my dresser, which has pictures of all my most favorite people amongst my beauty products, and there she is.

My mum.

My rock.

Grinning widely, her cheek pushed up against mine, her eyes glossy with tears. I’m holding my diploma high in the air, and her pride radiates through the photo.

I have to take a deep breath to keep myself together.

I can’t fall apart today.