Chapter Twenty - A Flicker of Hope

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THIRD PERSON'S POV:

Weeks after their trip, Atiye still carried the weight of her confession. Sharing her trauma with Timothee had been liberating, yet the scars, both physical and emotional, remained a constant reminder of her past. Determined to heal, she began therapy, as suggested by Timothee.  The sessions were offering a safe space to unpack the years of buried pain of her.

Timothee remained a steadfast presence, accompanying her to appointments and providing emotional support. He didn't offer platitudes or empty promises; instead, he listened patiently, his unwavering presence a source of strength.

One day, during a particularly intense session, Atiye expressed a desire to confront her abuser. The therapist cautioned against rushing, emphasizing the importance of emotional preparedness. However, a seed of determination was planted. She yearned for justice, for a sense of closure that therapy sessions alone couldn't provide.

Timothee, understanding her need, offered his full support. He researched legal options, connected her with resources, and even accompanied her to police stations and legal consultations. Not only Timothee but also Jenevi and Curtis were there, standing strong along with Atiye. The process was slow, frustrating at times, but they navigated it all together, each step chipping away at the wall of fear and isolation Atiye'd built around herself.

Meanwhile, in therapy, Atiye began exploring ways to reclaim her body. She started a self-care routine, focusing on gentle exercise, nourishing food, and mindfulness practices. Slowly, she began to see her scars not as marks of pain, but as symbols of resilience, testaments to her strength in surviving.

One afternoon, Timothee found her sketching in their shared apartment. Hesitantly, she showed him the drawing – a woman gazing confidently at her reflection, the scars on her skin depicted with neither shame nor anger, but acceptance and self-love. Tears welled up in his eyes, a silent tribute to her courage and progress.

The whole thing could be as happy and smooth as it was looking but in reality, life wasn’t this much easy.

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