Feel Pretty

Prologue (Odell)

I've always been the kind of person who blends into the background. When I walk down the street, my footsteps are soft and barely heard, like the whisper of a breeze. I suppose that's how I've lived most of my life—trying not to stand out, hoping to be unnoticed.

At twenty, I still feel like I'm caught in the shadow of my own reflection. My face, with its milky complexion, delicate pink cupid lips, and those cheeks that blush too easily, has always been a source of confusion for me. To some, it might be beautiful, even mesmerizing, but to me, it's a constant reminder of my inadequacy. The curve of my collarbone and the narrowness of my waist, though often admired by others, have become the features I wish I could erase.

There's a void in my heart that I try to fill with the comfort of familiar routines. My wardrobe of loose, light-colored clothes and high jeans is like a shield, hiding the parts of me I wish I could change. I've crafted a life of comfort in the shadows, where I feel safe from the prying eyes and judgmental whispers.

But then there are Eli and Tanner. Eli, with his tall, tanned build and perfect features, is my friend who sees beauty in me where I only see flaws. His admiration is like a warm blanket on a cold day. And Tanner, with his quiet strength, stands by us both, offering support in his own understated way. Together, they've shown me a kindness that feels almost like a secret gift.

Eli's gaze is soft and understanding, a gentle reminder that maybe I am worth something more than what I see in the mirror. His kindness helps me see the possibility of loving myself, even when I find it hard to believe. Tanner's presence is a steady anchor, a reminder that I'm not alone in my struggles.

As I stand on the precipice of a new chapter, I'm learning to embrace the possibility that maybe, just maybe, there's a version of me that's worth loving. It's a slow process, like the tender growth of a flower, but for the first time in a long while, I'm beginning to believe that I might be more than the sum of my insecurities.

This is where my story begins—where I step out of the shadows and into the light that Eli and Tanner so generously offer. It's a journey of self-discovery, of seeing beauty where I once saw only flaws. And with each step, I'm learning to feel pretty, in a way I never thought possible.