Because people like us… we learn early how to bury the truth beneath charm and silk.
You never know who’s listening.
“Of course I can,” Ava said quickly. “Will eleven work?”
I nodded, even though she couldn’t see. “Yes. That’s perfect.”
Another pause.
“So… it’s over? With him?”
“Yes,” I whispered. “And I’m not coming back.”
2/3
+15 Bonus
I could feel her inhale, feel her holding back an I told you so. But all she said was, “Sabrina. You made a choice. And now you’re
making a new one. That’s strength. Not weakness.”
I stared out at the skyline, quiet for a moment. “I just… I’m sorry I didn’t listen to you sooner. You warned me. You said a man like
Archie would never choose me fully.”
“And now you’ve chosen yourself,” Ava said gently. “That’s what matters. And there’s no need to apologize, baby girl.”
She let out a soft sigh. “I’m just glad you see it now. Come home, Sabrina. Come back to where you’re safe, where you’re loved. I
want you and Elly to rest, to let us take care of you for once. Promise me?”
“I love you, sis,” I whispered.
And with that, I ended the call and stepped back into the hotel room.
Elly was curled beneath the sheets, her tiny body rising and falling in slow, peaceful breaths. Her hand rested beside her cheek,
clutching her favorite plush fox. Just seeing her so calm… lightened something heavy inside me.
It would only get better now.
We were out of Archie’s reach.
And we were going home.
The flight to Mexico was smooth. Effortless, even. Ava had sent one of the family planes to pick us up–sleek, top–of–the–line, even more luxurious than I remembered. They must have upgraded it since I left.
Elly was thrilled.
She darted between the seats, giggling, sampling every snack on the menu. The flight attendant praised her, and she flashed back one of her radiant little smiles–the kind that could stop time.
“Mommy, look!” she squealed, pressing her face to the window. “Is that Mexico?”
I leaned in, seeing the land stretching below. “Yes, baby. That’s Mommy’s home.”
