Antolena's nights blended together – stolen moments with Alex, whispers of hope, and fragile threads of connection.
Their bond strengthened, a lifeline amidst the chaos.
But reality loomed, threatening to snap those threads.
One evening, Emma's tears streamed down her face.
"Antolena, I'm sorry. I never meant to hurt you."
Antolena's heart swelled, forgiveness tentatively taking root.
"Mom, I love you. But Dad...?"
Emma's gaze dropped.
"I know, sweetie. We're trying."
Trying.
The word echoed in Antolena's mind.
Was it enough?
The next day, Alex shared his own struggles.
"Antolena, my dad left when I was 10. I thought it was my fault."
Antolena's eyes widened.
"You're not alone," she whispered.
Their shared pain forged an unbreakable bond.
As they walked through the park, Alex's hand brushed against hers.
A spark ignited.
Antolena's heart skipped a beat.
"Alex?"
He turned, his eyes locking onto hers.
"Antolena, I..."
His voice trailed off, but his gaze spoke volumes.
In that moment, Antolena knew:
She wasn't alone.
She was seen.
She was loved.
YOU ARE READING
Beyond The Mask
Short StoryWhen 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...
