The Past Within - Mialotte - TNN

Happy

Spicy ending! Read at your own risk.

In her next therapy session, Charlotte sat across from Dr. Peterson, her hands resting comfortably in her lap, a small smile tugging at her lips. There was a warmth in her expression that hadn't been there before, a sense of peace she was finally beginning to embrace.

Dr. Peterson noticed immediately. "You seem lighter today, Charlotte. How have things been going with Jemma settling in?"

Charlotte's smile widened as she thought about the past few days. "It's been... incredible. Better than I could've imagined," she said, her voice soft but full of emotion. "Jemma's adjusting really well. She's such a bright kid, and watching her get more comfortable in the house—it's like, for the first time, everything feels right."

"That's wonderful to hear," Dr. Peterson replied warmly. "How has it been for you, adjusting to having her there?"

Charlotte paused, reflecting for a moment. "It's been a bit overwhelming, I won't lie. There are moments when I look at her and I feel this huge responsibility, like I need to make sure she's always okay, that I'm giving her everything she needs. But honestly... I'm so happy she's there. Having her with us—it's like something inside me clicked. Mia and I... we've talked about this a lot, and we just want to give her the best life we can. It feels like our little family is complete."

Dr. Peterson nodded, her face gentle and encouraging. "That's a big shift, but it sounds like it's been incredibly rewarding. What's been the best part for you so far?"

Charlotte's eyes softened as she thought about Jemma's laugh, the way she fit so seamlessly into their home. "The best part is seeing her smile," she said, her voice growing quiet. "When we told her she was going to stay with us, she jumped into my arms like she already knew she was safe. And just... knowing that we can give her that, a home where she feels loved and secure—that's everything."

Dr. Peterson smiled, her gaze understanding. "It sounds like you've found so much joy in this new chapter. But I know big changes like this can also stir up some old fears. Have you had any moments where doubts have crept in?"

Charlotte took a breath, thinking about the question. "There are moments, yeah. I've caught myself wondering if I'm doing enough, or if I'm going to make the same mistakes my mom did. But Mia... she's been so supportive. Whenever I start to spiral, she pulls me back. We talk through everything, and having her there—it just makes me feel like I'm not alone in this."

"That's really important," Dr. Peterson agreed. "You've done a lot of healing in your own journey, Charlotte. And now you're taking all that you've learned and applying it in this new role as a parent. It sounds like you're already doing an amazing job."

Charlotte smiled a small flicker of pride in her eyes. "I'm trying," she said softly. "I want to be better than my parents were for me. I want Jemma to always know she's loved and supported, no matter what."

"And you're doing that," Dr. Peterson assured her. "You've made such incredible progress, and now you're building a life with Mia and Jemma where love is at the centre. That's a beautiful thing."

Charlotte nodded, feeling a sense of calm wash over her. "I know there will be tough days, but... I'm ready for them. I'm ready to be the kind of mom Jemma deserves."

The session ended on a positive note, with Charlotte feeling more confident in the life she was building with Mia and Jemma. As she walked out of the office, there was a lightness in her step, her heart filled with hope for the future.

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That night, after dinner, Charlotte and Mia stood outside Jemma's room, watching her brush her teeth and get ready for bed. It had become part of their nightly routine—both of them putting Jemma to bed together, each one tucking her in from either side of the bed, giving her goodnight kisses, and making sure she felt safe before she drifted off to sleep.