The door opens again, this time with more purpose.
A woman steps in, her demeanor calm, professional.
She introduces herself, a social worker here to help.
We sit, the three of us, in a corner of the room.
She listens, her questions gentle but probing.
Slowly, the story unfolds, the fragments of our fear laid bare.
There’s relief in sharing, but also vulnerability.
As we talk, I realize how much has been hidden, even from myself.
The truth, when spoken, is both terrifying and freeing.
We’re at the beginning of something new, and while the future is uncertain, I’m ready to face it.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered.
