The End

Rain...

Today it rains yet again. Not that I mind. It helps fill the hollowness in my heart created by the people who were supposed to protect me. To tell me what's wrong and what's right. To tell me it'll be alright. And finally, to love me.

Losing it all, makes a person do something that they're not permitted to do. It makes them look like a walking devil. I wonder if the devil was betrayed by the people who were supposed to be his as well. And made him so vengeful that he went against God? My thoughts always take a dark turn whenever the sky is filled with clouds. It's as if the sky is also crying and telling me it'll be alright. After the dark comes light for those who don't give up hope.

It makes me laugh, that I once believed it, no matter the events, no matter the pain. However, as a naive person, I miscalculated 1 small detail. It's only a fantasy to believe it. The light will only come to those who don't have the will to give up. I don't know about myself. What should I consider myself as? People look at me with either of 2 expressions, awe or contempt. The ones with the 1st expression are those who in one or another benefited from me. Although that is obvious. But they look at me that way for another reason. In their eyes, I am a knight in shining armor. Brought light and hope to them when they didn't know what it was. What they don't know is that they are knights of their own stories. I only showed them how to make their exterior shine. The rest is all on them. However, they think otherwise. I don't have time to waste so let them be happy in the illusions they've created.

Now, the 2nd type of expression. How should I say this, they're either dead or wish that they were dead. It'd be better than the life they live now. As to how they see it. They don't think it's wrong to destroy the weak, harass them, rape or other below-the-belt things they do for their entertainment. They have money and that's all the explanation they're willing to give. They own the right to trample others below them as if they are insects. Hmm... An interesting thought. But what if justice existed and cannot be bought? What then would happen to such people? They'd never thought about it. That's where I come in. I never had the luxury to sit idly by. So, it's to say a lot that I could have thought so much just now. Hmm, I wonder if the name given to me is correct, Celeste. Means heavenly. I don't think of myself as an angel. As an angel can do no wrong only right as permitted by God. I'd rather consider myself the devil's advocate. As I don't fear sending people to meet the devil in hell.

✨✨✨

How long does it take for an asshole to show up for the meeting? I would never be here if I didn't need their services. Ha! Heck 3 months ago, if someone told me, I was about to get a baby sister, I would've thrown them out of the window without a second's hesitation.

Leaning back on the chair I have been seated on for almost 20 mins or so I rub my temples in aggravation. How is it that the past you try so hard to leave behind somehow catches up with you in ways you've not thought of? Being successful is nothing if I wasn't even able to cut ties with the people, I'd wished I had killed. Looking at the assistant for the 3rd time who is sweating as though he's melting even though the room is chilled, too chilled for my liking. He knows he doesn't want to mess with me but he can't persuade his boss to show up. Now that tells me the amount of seriousness, they put in dealing with clients. I wonder how they can run things with their mismanagement. He has some nerve to be late even though the offer I put in is 10 times the amount any client usually offers them at the max.

I feel like a nerve is going to pop at this rate. I could've gotten deals completed by now. To make it worse it's started downpouring hard. I hate the rain. Makes my mood plummet. It was something like this when my mother heard the worst news and that wasn't all. He almost killed her and me and had the nerve to run away. My hands fist up just at the remainder...

I don't realize that I was caught up in my flashback that the person I was meeting up with finally decided to show up, "I see you have arrived Mr. Kingston. Sorry for the wait. I was rather preoccupied with work."

The first shock I get is that it's that woman, whom I thought I wouldn't be seeing again, and 2nd she's the rumored Devil's advocate? There must be something very wrong with people's descriptions of her. She looks like a teenager, hell I bet she is one. How come I am dealing with her?

"There must be some mistake... I am supposed to meet Mr. Campbell." I finally manage to get out with gritted teeth. Is he making fun of me? If so, he's gonna regret it.

"Looks like there is a mistake. Firstly, there is no Mr. Campbell in my company. It's Ms. Campbell. Before you assume, I am currently 20 and turning 21 in the upcoming August. So, unless your name is not Xavier Kingston then I doubt there are any mistakes further. Do you want to continue the meeting? Or not? It's up to you." She answers in a no-nonsense tone.

Rarely anyone has the guts to say my full name other than the people close to me. She's full of it, that is for sure. Let's see what Ms. Campbell is capable of.

Chapter 1:

Celeste's POV:

Brrrrrrrr. Brrrrr. Brrrr...

What the heck is that sound and so early in the morning? Drowsy and angry I sit up and look for the source only to see it's my damned alarm. Did it have to ring so quickly?

Seeing the time, I ponder for a whole 2 mins why did I put it up so early, anyways... I don't have anything lined up. Then it hits me like a bullet train that today is the day. I can't be a slacker no matter how much my body persists otherwise.

Jumping into a quick shower, I hiss. Remembering that last night was not as per the expectations and had to take a brunt. Damn it... Looking into the mirror my shoulder is already purple. Making a mental note, that I need to drop it off at the clinic to make sure it was nothing serious. Sighing I wrap a towel around my body preparing myself for the nightmare glare and speech once the doc sees my shoulder.

Heading to the walk-in closet I pick the outfit that'd work best for today. Yup this'll work best! Plain black chiffon top with rolled up sleeves and cuffed halfway up and burgundy skinny jeans. I want to go with sandals but since I need to be practical, I go taupe colored closed small block-heeled shoes. Taking the shoes in my hand, I walk over to the vanity table and after brushing my hair I put them in a high pony. Hmm... I may need a haircut at this rate. It's already at my waist. That'd be the first time I have let them so long. Satisfied with my look I put on a natural shade of stay-on lip gloss.

Heading out of the room, I spot the head maid that has been working for me for a long time. She notices me and smiles softly, "Good Morning, dear. You're awake ahead of time. Should I prepare the usual? I saw the way you entered. Do you want painkillers till you drop off your younger brother?"

I nod, she's more than aware of my work and what it entails. But she's never asked and gets the work done as I ask. That's all I ask for. The heavenly aroma of breakfast enters the lounge and I smile. This couple is used to my routine more than I am. A few words and that's all they require.

Walking upstairs I knock on the door, "Owen, I am coming inside." Then knock 3 times more, harder. This is our way of communication as he has a bit of complication.

Taking a deep breath, I turn the knob to see that my little guy is already ready and playing on his laptop as always. He turns his head when a shadow is cast in front of him, and he smiles. Putting his laptop aside, he signs me, Good Morning, sissy and seeing my smile he comes over to hug me. Trying my best not to wince he notices something odd, so steps back.

"What happened, sissy." He asks, worried.

I smile and just shake my head, "Don't worry, Owen. I am alright. So, are you ready for 1st day of junior high?"

"As ready as I will be. It's not that I have a choice that allows me to skip school and be home-schooled." He sighs.

I laugh at his antics. I am truly lucky to have this little guy in my life. He is like the light to my darkness. He knows it as well but never takes it for granted. Sometimes, I'd wish he would. Then I may just feel a little less guilty than I do. But there is still hope that he can go back to how he used to be.

Owen may say that he's alright and is now used to hearing low to no sound. He is simply happy to be alive and living happily with me. But it breaks me knowing that he's like this because of me. Yes, he was just a regular kid before the accident. It greatly affected his hearing. The docs are saying that if his recovery stays at the pace it is with minimal pressure, he would be able to go under surgery within a year and 95% chance he'll be able to hear again.

But he's had to endure 3 years of nothing but pain. I could do nothing but stand by his side and hold his side. He would endure it, smiling at me, telling me silently it'll be alright. We'll get out of it together.

I am knocked out of my thoughts when I feel a kiss on my cheek and I see Owen smiling at me, "Don't worry! You'll start looking like my mom instead of my beautiful sister at this rate."

His attempt at humor makes me as well. Putting my good arm on his shoulder we head downstairs where the breakfast has already been served,

"Damn! I don't what we'd do without you guys keeping us in line and making sure we don't starve to death." The moment he takes a bite of his food he groans and speaks.

I laugh and the couple which consists of Mona and Edwin smile at him.

Dropping off my brother at school and I head to meet up with the principal to make sure no one and by that, I mean no one messes with my little bro without bearing in mind the consequences. The man looks in his 40s or something and looks as though he's seen a ghost. Hmm... I have yet to introduce myself so what's spooked him? Looking behind him I see the reason for him being spooked. If I wasn't what I am. I may have been scared of this guy like him His name alone invokes fear but anyone who sees him would be more scared.

Celeste's POV:

His name alone invokes fear but anyone who sees him would be more scared. Wonder what he's doing here of all places.

"Step aside little girl." He grits out.

My eyebrow raises at the name he chose. Looks like someone has an attitude problem. Not that I am any different but I know how to be civil. Scoffing, I step aside, but not before saying to the Principal, "I hope you remember what I have said as we have talked over the phone." He starts sweating remembering who I am referring to and nods, immediately. Turning to the muscly guy, "Don't know what your problem is. But firstly, there is a word called 'etiquette'. Learn it, and maybe you might have less trouble." Smiling over at him that is anything but sincere.

As soon as I leave, I swear I hear him curse and I know for a fact it's at me. Hell, if I'd care. If someone has a problem or an anger problem, don't take it out on me.

Shaking my head at his choice of words even though he knows that I have bearly left the room makes me want to chuckle. Heading in the direction of Owen's classroom that he'd pointed out earlier, I stop by. I take one more look at Owen and see he's already adjusted and sitting in the front row. Hmm... Since everyone is sitting in pairs, I am surprised there isn't one with him. Oh well. I'll ask later. Heading outside I stop in my tracks as I hear crying. What the... I follow the sound and see the person behind the voice and see that her face is completely blotched due to tears. She's been bullied and it's not the normal type either. She has cuts and bruises and her hair has been cut haphazardly, making her look like something I'd rather not think about.

I gasp at her state. She looks up and is horrified that she's been spotted and tries to make an escape but I am faster, she trembles and begs, "Please let me go... I swear I won't tell anyone. I will lie."

Dark thoughts run through my head and I know my dark side is now showing on my face but I could care less. I take a deep breath and try to calm myself before speaking to her, "Sweetie, I am not here to harm you. I want to help you." Reaching into my pocket, I take out chocolate candy and give it to her. Trembling she takes it. Looking at her she's no older than my brother. What I don't understand is that this school is ranked as its best in education and discipline. If this is the so-called discipline then I'd rather not think about the mediocre ranked schools.

I close my eyes trying to avoid thoughts infiltrating my head that has a tendency to make me say words that are normally not a problem but definitely a problem for the little angel in front of me. It breaks my head seeing her like this. "Sweetie, I know this may sound awkward but do you want to go to a doctor? I have heard this school has one of the best medics."

She violently shakes her head, "Please no! He is even worse. He... harasses me..." I don't let her finish and gently pull her into a hug.

I never knew the school was this bad. I had heard only remarkable words. But maybe that's because I only am with people who have sons and none of their daughters have attended this school. I will make sure to investigate this matter very thoroughly. For now, she needs medical attention.

I slowly but surely coax her to come with me to the clinic I go to and the moment the doctor spots me smile but almost instantly it vanishes when seeing the little girl beside me. She starts shaking beside me and grips my damaged shoulder making me wince.

"What on earth happened to the little girl, Celeste?!" He says more like shouts if he could but he needs to maintain his composure so asks me to settle down.

"Alex, can you please get a female doc to look at..." I realize now that I don't even know the name of the little sweetie pie.

"Umm... Bloom. My Name is Bloom." She answers my unasked question.

Nodding I continue, "Bloom. She is a case of bullying. Don't ask her questions. I will take care of it all." I stop him from asking anything unnecessary.

His hands form into fists and he nods, "Celeste, please step into my office after reassuring Miss. Bloom." Leaving the place, he was once sitting vacated.

I have a feeling I am gonna get a lecture. But I'll worry about it later. I lead Bloom to the best female doctor who also happens to be Alex's fiancé, Anastasia, Ana for short.

She has the same shocked look on her face as I did when I found the child. She gets to work without asking any questions except for making sure she's alright, "Bloom, I am gonna head to the head doc's office. If you feel uncomfortable or simply want to find me, ask Ms. Ana and she'll lead you to me, okay?"

She nods, I then step out and walk towards his office. The moment I step the smell of smoke and cigarette fills my nostrils making my nose scrunch up in disgust. He is supposed to be a doc, yet he smokes.

"Unbutton your top before I force you." He says with no emotion in his voice.

"Dude, be careful. What if your dear fiancé hears you?" But nonetheless, I comply and the bruising has gotten worse as expected.

"If she's the condition you are in, she'd be lecturing you and most probably consider tying you up until you regress on taking so many risky cases!" In comparison to his harsh voice, his touch is so gentle as

though he's handling porcelain.

After applying meds wraps the wound. In between the process, Bloom walks in a much better condition but is shocked to see me being treated. I simply smile and request her to take a seat. She obliges easily. I laugh at Alex's grumbling while treating me. Once done he takes a seat in his office chair and prescribes meds to me. After examining Bloom's condition, he becomes a bit stiff making me concerned.

"What happened?" He clears his throat and looks from me to Bloom giving me a silent gesture.

"Umm Bloom, why don't you go sit in the car and I'll be there after grabbing the meds." She nods and leaves.

"You may want to take the girl to a psychological therapist. She may seem normal from the outside. But she is not okay. I have seen my share of these cases. She may not show symptoms right now but she may have suicidal thoughts. Due to a lack of affection and overall care. You may wanna see her living condition and the attitude of the people around her. That is my personal observation from when she came in. But it's your call. You know if the matter explodes, you know you have us at your back."

Hmm... That explains the smoking in the morning. He doesn't do it, other than when occasionally stressed. I nod and take the observation he has written along with the details of the best therapist available in LA. He knows how to get the work done without even asking.

"Alex, I need a favor." He cuts me off, "Don't bother, I was wanting to meet my little bro."

I smile and leave his office and Ana hugs me, careful of my shoulder, "I don't this is the first time she's been bullied. I saw some marks that have faded with time but still, they're heart-wrenching. It reminds me a lot of someone very dear to us all, you, Celeste. So, bear that in mind."

I smile slightly and head out. Sitting in the driving seat. I reverse out of the clinic and put already have the next location in mind, "Th-Thank you, Ms. Celeste." Bloom says out of the blue, making me halt for a millisecond. Stopping at the traffic light, I look at her.

"What are you thanking me for?" She's about to speak up when I realize what she's going to say,

"Actually, leave it. Just know this, Bloom. I am not a kind person. People who know me call me the Devil's Advocate. Because I pave the way for them to meet him and get their judgment. However, for children like you, I will do all I can to protect you. So, right now, we are heading to the salon to get some much-needed attention, and then we are heading for lunch. At lunch, we will discuss what happened to you and where we'll go from here onwards."

The lights turn green and put my foot on the accelerator, then continue, "Of course, I will not ask you to share the details you are uncomfortable with. Only the most necessary of questions. Are you okay with that?"

She seems to be in deep thought, before asking, "But why are you helping someone that you have no clue about?"

I smile, smart kid, "Let's just say, from the day I have been able to remember, all I know is sadness and pain. So, I cannot help everyone but those I can, I will so that one day I leave this place forever, I have no regrets."

She nods and for the first time, there is a sparkle in her eyes. She looks at me with awe and pride. We reach the salon and see one of the staff members already at the entrance waiting for me.

"Ms. Campbell! It's a pleasure to have you with us!"

I nod, "This time I am not here for myself. But for this girl who is accompanying me." I wait till Bloom comes to stand by my side. "She's had a bit of an incident and I want to make sure that her hair is in the best state. Along with her clothes."

The staff is surprised at my statement as normally I only make appointments for myself. This time not only did I come with short notice, and promise to pay them a good amount but it's not for me either.

She nods and leads the way. It's an easy feat getting an appointment with their services comes with a price tag normally you wouldn't even look at. But not for me. It's okay. At least the service is good and offers privacy. That's what Bloom needs for the moment. To collect herself.

Once she's comfortable they start with her hair and the owner herself comes to greet me, as always. "Darling, it's truly a surprise to see you. So, I've heard you need help in choosing clothes for the young guest who's with you.

I only raise a brow at her indicating, I am not in the mood to handle her antics, "Not help. Just need the options, available in her size."

She gets up and sashes away as she always does, and then moments later the staff asks me to follow them, I am impressed they have good choices and they all seem to be her size. Choosing the one I know, that'll suit her, I ask them to bring it together.

White skinny jeans, a pale pink top, and sneakers and to color coordinate a black jacket with pale pink flower and a cute hat.