ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS.

Dancing With Your Ghost was not an easy story to write. I used the name of one of my best friends and made her the centre of attention throughout this whole story. I used my wild imagination and every single detail I remembered of Aaliyah - from our late-night conversations to our early morning talks. I'll admit, there were times when the words I wrote on paper or Google Docs or whatever made me feel ashamed of myself. I would stare at the words for hours and think "Wow, what the hell is wrong with me?" - believe it or not, I still think this was a stupid and crazy idea that I should've never done. But without the constant support and encouragement from my friends, I personally don't think this story would have been possible.

Anyways. My infinite thanks go to:

Aaliyah // hoperadio. Of course. How can I not thank you? You have been my inspiration from Day 1. You were my reason to start writing on this damn account. You've given me your unwavering support till the end, you never once doubted me, you never once discouraged me. You always believed in me and one day I will cut the stars from the sky and somehow fit it all in your mailbox. (And yes, still to this day, you inspire me every single day - I mean it).

buccigangstar. For being my first reader (technically) and reading my crappy nonsense. You are the best (and only) editor a girl could ask for. Thank you for believing in me when I first believed that I've gone mad writing this. I am lucky and grateful. You are unbelievable and I adore you.

dimpletales. For reading the rough draft and giving me your honest feedback. It means a lot. You've helped me shape some of the character voices. I will be forever grateful to you.

To my favourite hype women: Em, theartpiece, strawverymilktae; you guys gave me the strength to be brave. You've all made my days so much brighter and infinitely more beautiful.

Thanks to rikiblues and Magda for being early readers.

I have to give a huge shoutout to plutointhestars for making this jaw-dropping cover and banner. I absolutely love them both. (I think I've lost count on how many times I've said thank-you to you haha).

And for every reader who somehow found this story: well. Without you, I'd have no one to talk to but the characters in my head.

Thank you forever.

© anisha.