ng a wave of emotions wash over her. She had been holding it t

the floor, her back against the door. She bu

he just leave her alone? She had made it clear that she

e didn't know what to do, how to process her feelings. She felt li

up emotions she had been holding inside for so long. It was a cathartic release, but it al

She sat on the floor, her body exhausted, her mind numb. She didn't k

looked at herself in the mirror and barely recognized the

he had to move forward, to find a way to deal with her feelings an

p but wonder what the future held. Would she ever be able to fa

ome water on her face, trying to reduce the puffiness around her eyes. She then appli

ext message from her best friend, Rachel. "Hey girl, wha

he didn't know how much she wanted to share with R

me stuff. Can I call you later?" Sophia t

"Of course, girl! Call me whenever yo

of relief. She knew she could count on

ery. As she walked, she felt a sense of calm wash over her. The sun was shining, and the birds were singin

wonder what he was thinking, whether he was regretting his actions. She knew she neede

watched as children played tag, their laughter and shouts filling the air. S

e of herself. She needed to focus on her own happiness, her o

amiliar smile. She spotted her friend sitting in the corner, sipping on a

ached. "Hey, girl! It's so great to see you

and security. She had known Rachel since college, and h

s face. "What's wrong, Soph? You look like you've be

ter with Alexander the kiss, her reaction, and her feelin

ithout even asking?" Rachel asked,

ies. My ex...he was abusive, Rach. He would push me around, make me feel small. The way

oph, I'm so sorry. I had no idea it was that

ot over it yet, Rach. I thought I was, but Alexander's actions just brough

apable. It'll take time, but you'll get through this. And Alexander...he seems like a good guy,

"Yeah, maybe you're right. I need to talk to hi

ement. "You got this, Soph. You're a survivo