Breaking Free

10.

The divorce was finalized just days ago, and though the process had been emotionally draining, she felt a sense of relief. She was free, and for the first time in years, the future felt open and full of possibilities.

Tasha walked into the room, carrying two cups of tea. She handed one to Kierra and stood beside her, their shoulders brushing. "How are you feeling?" Tasha asked softly.

Kierra took a sip of her tea, letting the warmth seep into her bones. "I don't know," she admitted. "Relieved, I guess. But also scared. It's like I'm standing at the edge of something new, and I'm not sure if I'm ready."

"You don't have to be ready right away," Tasha said, placing her hand on Kierra's. "We'll take things slow, one step at a time. No pressure."

Kierra turned to face Tasha, her eyes searching hers. "I don't want to be afraid anymore. I want to move forward... with you."

Tasha smiled, her heart swelling with affection. "We'll get there together, Kierra. I promise."

Kierra returned the smile "I'll see you later. I'm going to my therapy session."

They gave each other a hug and Kierra left to go to therapy.

Kierra sat on the plush couch in Dr. Edwards' office, staring at the framed artwork on the wall as she gathered her thoughts. The gentle sound of the white noise machine filled the silence, offering a soothing backdrop as she tried to put her emotions into words.

"I've been thinking a lot about Tasha," Kierra began, her voice soft but tinged with uncertainty. "I care about her so much, but I can't help feeling scared. What if I mess this up? What if I'm not ready for this?"

Dr. Edwards leaned forward slightly, her expression attentive and compassionate. "It's understandable to feel scared, Kierra. You've just come out of a traumatic relationship. Trusting someone new, especially after experiencing so much pain, can feel overwhelming."

Kierra nodded, her fingers fidgeting with the hem of her shirt. "Tasha's been amazing—patient, understanding—but there's this voice in my head that keeps telling me I'm not good enough for her. That I'm too damaged to be in a healthy relationship."

Dr. Edwards' expression softened further. "That voice you're hearing is a reflection of the pain and trauma you've endured, not of your worth or capability to love and be loved. It's important to recognize that those thoughts are not truths but fears rooted in your past experiences."

Kierra took a deep breath, her eyes glistening with unshed tears. "I know Tasha isn't Jordan, but I'm scared that my past will somehow repeat itself. What if I carry all that baggage into our relationship and ruin it?"

"Your awareness of these fears is a positive sign," Dr. Edwards replied gently. "It shows that you're taking responsibility for your own healing, which is crucial in building a healthy relationship. The key is to continue working on yourself, to trust the process, and to communicate openly with Tasha about your concerns."

Kierra's gaze dropped to her hands, her voice trembling. "But what if she decides I'm too much to handle? What if she realizes she doesn't want to deal with my issues?"

Dr. Edwards gave her a reassuring smile. "A healthy relationship is built on mutual understanding, patience, and support. It's okay to have vulnerabilities and to be open about them. If Tasha truly cares for you, she'll understand that healing takes time and that your past doesn't define your future."

Kierra wiped away a tear that had escaped down her cheek. "I want to believe that. I really do. But it's hard to let go of the fear."

"It is hard," Dr. Edwards acknowledged, "but it's also necessary for your growth. Take things one step at a time. There's no need to rush into anything. Let yourself be present in the moment with Tasha, and allow the relationship to develop naturally. Remember, it's okay to have doubts and fears, but don't let them hold you back from experiencing something beautiful."

Kierra nodded, feeling a weight lift slightly from her chest. "I guess I'm just afraid of getting hurt again."

"That's a valid fear," Dr. Edwards said. "But you also have the power to protect yourself by setting healthy boundaries and continuing your therapy. Trust that you're doing the work to heal and that you're capable of having a fulfilling relationship with Tasha, or anyone else."

As their session came to a close, Kierra felt a sense of clarity. The fears were still there, but they no longer felt as insurmountable. She realized that while her past had shaped her, it didn't have to dictate her future. With Tasha by her side and the support of Dr. Edwards, she could take this next step—one day at a time.

Later that evening, Kierra returned to Tasha's house, feeling lighter after her therapy session. She was greeted by the warm scent of dinner cooking and Tasha's welcoming smile.

As they sat down to eat, Kierra reached across the table, taking Tasha's hand in hers. "Thank you for being here for me," she said softly. "I know this isn't easy, but I'm really starting to believe that we can make this work."

Tasha squeezed her hand, her eyes filled with affection. "We're in this together, Kierra. Whatever comes our way, we'll face it as a team."

As they shared a quiet meal, Kierra felt the pieces of her life slowly falling into place. There was still a long road ahead, but for the first time in years, she was excited to see where it would lead.

Meanwhile, across town, Jordan, uninvited and seething with resentment, arrived at Kierra's parents' house. He had been trying to contact Kierra, but she had cut off all communication. Furious, he decided to take matters into his own hands.

Kierra's father, John, was on the front porch with J. Drew when they saw Jordan approaching. John exchanged a look with his son, a silent agreement passing between them.

"What do you want, Jordan?" John called out, his voice steady but firm.

Jordan sneered, his anger barely contained. "I want to talk to Kierra. She can't just walk away from me like this!"

J. Drew stepped forward, his expression hardening. "Kierra doesn't want anything to do with you anymore. The divorce is final. It's time for you to move on."

Jordan's fists clenched at his sides. "She's my wife!"

"She was," John corrected, his tone sharp. "But not anymore. And if you don't leave now, we'll call the police. You have no business being here."

Jordan glared at them, but the resolve in John and J. Drew's eyes made it clear that he was outnumbered and outmatched. He turned and stormed off, but not without a final, bitter glance back at the house.

John and J. Drew watched him go, ready to protect Kierra from any further trouble Jordan might cause.