Jessa visited me one evening with food, and we sat together in my new apartment. The space felt calm and safe in a way I had not experienced in a long time.
She smiled and said, “You finally look like yourself again.”
I replied, “I think I am still becoming that person.”
Months later, my life felt different. The fear slowly faded, replaced by routine and clarity.
One evening, I stood by the window and looked out at the city. The world felt open again, not controlled by fear or manipulation.
I said quietly to myself, “They tried to take everything, but they did not get to decide who I become.”
