When the judge finally delivered her decision, a sense of calm washed over me.
Thomas would stay.
The weight that had been pressing down seemed to lift, leaving behind a lightness I hadn’t felt in a long time.
As we left the courtroom, Thomas glanced up at me, his eyes reflecting a newfound confidence.
“Thank you,” he whispered, his voice still soft but filled with warmth.
I smiled, my heart full.
This was just the beginning, but it was a beginning with promise.
Together, we had found a voice, and together, we would continue to build our life.
Note: This story is a work of fiction inspired by real events. Names, characters, and details have been altered.
