AVA'S POV
The rest flowed out of me as if it had been waiting there for years, pressing against my ribs like a caged bird.
I spoke about my mother. About the truth. About reclaiming identity. And about the foundation built to empower women like her, like me.
When I finished, the room was quiet for a heartbeat before the applause started.
Backstage, Ethan was waiting with a smile on his face and warmth in his eyes. He didn't say anything, just wrapped me in his arms and held me.
"I'm proud of you," he whispered.
"I finally feel like me," I whispered back.
That evening, back at the hotel, we sat on the balcony watching the city lights. Everything felt clearer now. The dust had settled. The truth was out. And I wasn't afraid anymore.
Tomorrow, the work would begin again, but tonight, we breathed.
Together.
There's something strangely grounding about silence.
