Masked Sins (Ravaged Castle, #4)

by Amanda Richardson

“I know things have been tough lately. I remember what it was like at your age, and it’s not easy when people are mean. But I want you to know something really important: fitting in isn’t everything.” Bradleigh crosses her arms, listening, so I continue. “Sometimes, when others bully, it’s because they’re dealing with their own issues. That doesn’t make it right, but it does mean that it’s not about you—it’s about them. You’re unique, and that’s a good thing. It might not feel like it now, but the qualities that make you different are the same ones that make you special.” “Sometimes I feel so different,” she says, looking up at me with a crease between her brows. “I know. And you know what? I realized that the people who matter the most are the ones who like you for who you are, not who they want you to be. It’s okay if you don’t fit into a certain group or if you feel like you stand out. Standing out is brave and strong. And I promise you, one day, you’ll find people who love you just as you are. And when that happens, you’ll be so glad you didn’t try to change for anyone else. If you ever feel down or alone, remember that there’s a whole world out there full of people who haven’t even met you yet but will care about you so much. It gets better, and you’ll find your people. For now, just keep being kind to yourself, because you deserve that.” “Thank you,” she says. “Have you ever had someone be mean to you?” I nod, thinking of Jean. Thinking of all the people in high scho...