The Tearsmith

Eight-year-old Nica's life takes a devastating turn when a tragic accident leaves her an orphan. This traumatic event exposes her to the harsh realities of the world and marks the beginning of her challenging journey.

At the Sunnycreek Orphanage, Nica struggles with the unforgiving environment, feeling alone and vulnerable. Her friendship with Adeline provides her solace in a place where many children suffer under the oppressive regime run by headmistress Margaret.

Nica's life takes a positive turn when she is welcomed into the Milligan family. Adoptive parents Anna and Norman provide her with love and support, although their son Rigel presents Nica with unexpected difficulties.

As Nica adjusts to her new home, she faces hostility from her adoptive brother, Rigel. This tension reignites her painful memories from Sunnycreek, revealing that Rigel also struggles with his own tumultuous history.

During the much-anticipated Garden Day, Rigel surprises everyone by refusing to give Nica a black rose, traditionally a symbol of twisted love. This rejection sets in motion a series of events that complicate their already fraught relationship.

Lionel, a classmate who harbors feelings for Nica, introduces more complexity into her life. His infatuation fuels Rigel's jealousy, ultimately culminating in an emotional climax that threatens to unravel the delicate bond forming between the two siblings.

In a moment of vulnerability, Nica cares for Rigel during a seizure, revealing a deep, unspoken bond between them. This experience illustrates Rigel's commitment to protect Nica from the lingering threat posed by Margaret.

Adeline arrives with shocking news that turns Nica's world upside down. She intends to take legal action against Margaret, forcing Nica to confront her traumatic past while trying to protect Rigel from further hurt.

The school dance, meant to be a joyous occasion, becomes a nightmare for Nica and Rigel. As tensions run high, Lionel's sickening jealousy manifests, leading Rigel to make a heart-wrenching decision that alters Nica's trajectory.

In a desperate attempt to escape Lionel's wrath during the disastrous school dance, Nica and Rigel leap from a bridge into the river below. This life-threatening moment tests the depths of their love and commitment to one another.

Nica awakens in the hospital to a grim reality after the fall; Rigel is in a coma due to his hidden medical condition. The situation worsens as authorities become involved, and Margaret blames Nica for Rigel's fate.

Despite the challenges she faces, Nica musters the courage to confront Margaret, vowing to stand up against her tormentor. This confrontation symbolizes Nica's growth and resilience in the face of adversity.

In a cathartic moment, Nica visits Rigel in the hospital, sharing their triumph over Margaret's oppression. It is during this visit that Rigel stirs, offering hope for their future together.

The story fast-forwards to a promising future where Nica and Rigel thrive as devoted parents to a spirited daughter. Their journey embodies the hope and joy that help to heal the scars of their past.