Antolena's world froze. Alex's words echoed in her mind:
"I'm here for you. No more masks."
For the first time, she felt seen.
Emma and Ryan's voices drifted from downstairs, their argument escalating.
Antolena's heart ached. She couldn't bear the thought of another shattered dream.
"Let's get out of here," Alex whispered, his hand still grasping hers.
They descended to the street, the cool night air enveloping them.
As they walked, Antolena poured her heart out:
"Alex, I feel so lost. My parents, school, everything."
Alex listened intently:
"You're not alone, Antolena. We all struggle."
His words soothed her soul.
They reached the park, the same spot where they first met.
Alex turned to her:
"Antolena, I have something to tell you."
His eyes locked onto hers.
"I've been through similar struggles. My parents divorced when I was younger."
Antolena's eyes widened.
"You understand," she whispered.
Alex nodded:
"We can face this together."
For the first time in months, Antolena felt hope.
Maybe she wasn't broken.
Maybe she could heal.
As they sat on a bench, the stars twinkling above, Antolena realized:
She had a choice.
To let her struggles define her.
Or to rise above.
YOU ARE READING
Beyond The Mask
Historia CortaWhen Antolena's world shatters with her parents' separation, she must navigate the complexities of love, family, and identity. Behind the mask of perfection, she hides her pain. But when Alex enters her life, she's forced to confront her emotions an...
