The Past Within - Mialotte - TNN

United

In their therapy session, the room feels quieter than usual, filled with a kind of anticipation that both Charlotte and Mia bring with them. They sit side by side, hands loosely intertwined, as they talk about their upcoming wedding. There's an unmistakable glow about them—Charlotte is animated, her face lighting up as she talks about their venue search, the flowers they're considering, and the simple joy of planning their future together.

"I've always dreamed of something outdoors, with the sun setting behind us," Charlotte says, her voice soft but hopeful. "And Mia's been so involved... I can't wait for the day." Mia gives her a playful nudge, clearly as excited as she is.

Their therapist listens carefully, nodding as they share the details. But as the conversation flows, something in Charlotte's demeanour shifts. Her words slow down, and she glances at Mia out of the corner of her eye, almost as if seeking reassurance. Mia's still smiling lost in thought about the big day, but the therapist catches that subtle change.

"Charlotte," the therapist says gently, "I can tell you're excited about the wedding, but I also sense a bit of hesitation. Is there something you're worried about?"

Charlotte hesitates, her fingers tightening around Mia's for a moment before she lets out a small sigh. She glances at Mia, her heart racing, then looks down at her lap. "I'm scared," she whispers, almost as if admitting it aloud will make it more real. "I'm scared I'll make the same mistakes I did before."

Mia turns to her instantly, her face softening with concern. "Char..."

"I thought I was ready for this," Charlotte continues, her voice a little shaky. "But my last marriage... I don't want to end up back in that place. What if I fall into the same patterns? What if I ruin this?"

Mia's grip on her hand tightens as she moves closer, her eyes searching Charlotte's face for answers. "You won't," Mia says firmly, though there's a vulnerability in her voice that Charlotte picks up on. "We won't."

Charlotte shakes her head slightly. "It's just... with him, I felt like I had to change everything about myself. I gave up things I loved just to make him happy. I'm terrified I'll lose myself again."

The therapist leans in, sensing this is a pivotal moment for Charlotte. "You're aware of those patterns now, and it wasn't your fault for what he did to you," she says gently. "That awareness is powerful. It's a big part of why things will be different this time."

Mia nods in agreement, but there's a flash of something in her eyes—an emotion that Charlotte doesn't miss. Before Charlotte can ask, Mia speaks up, her voice unexpectedly quiet. "I need to say something too," Mia begins, her gaze dropping for the first time during the session. "I've been scared too."

Charlotte turns toward her, startled. "What do you mean?"

Mia shifts uncomfortably in her seat, then exhales slowly. "I've been so focused on making sure you're okay, making sure you feel safe... but there's this little voice in my head that's been nagging me. What if I'm not enough for you? What if I'm not good enough to be the kind of partner you need?"

Charlotte is stunned. She'd never heard Mia express anything like this before. "Mia, you're everything to me."

Mia smiles softly, but her eyes are clouded with doubt. "I know, and I believe you... but sometimes, I still worry. I don't ever want to let you down. And with everything we've been through—the miscarriage, your past... I just want to make sure I'm the person you deserve."

Charlotte feels a swell of emotion rising in her chest. She cups Mia's face in her hands, looking deeply into her eyes. "Mia, you've been my rock through everything. I've never felt more loved or accepted in my entire life. You're more than enough. You're perfect for me."