➺ 𝑭𝑰𝑵𝑫𝑰𝑵𝑮 𝑶𝑼𝑹 𝑾𝑨𝒀 - E.McCord [𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗣𝗟𝗘𝗧𝗘]

Part 28

As the evening wore on, the atmosphere in the McCord home remained warm and filled with love. Avery watched her family and friends interact, the laughter ringing in her ears like a beautiful melody. It was a stark contrast to the silence that had once filled her life during her darkest days.The gathering began to wind down, and Avery felt a sense of closure wash over her. She glanced at each person in the room, the familiar faces now etched with a new understanding and acceptance. They had all been part of her journey, helping her find her way back to herself."Hey, everyone," Avery called, bringing the conversation to a gentle hush. "Before we wrap up, I just want to say one last thing."All eyes turned to her, filled with curiosity and affection."I know I've said it before, but I can't emphasize enough how much you all mean to me. Each of you has played a role in my healing, whether you realize it or not. You've shown me what love looks like, and I promise to carry that with me every day."She paused, her heart swelling with emotion. "I'm excited about the future. I know it won't always be easy, but I feel stronger now—thanks to all of you."Stevie stepped forward, wiping away a few tears. "We're just so proud of you, Avery. You're a warrior.""Yeah," Jason chimed in, grinning. "And we're here to celebrate all your victories, big or small."Alison nodded enthusiastically, adding, "And we'll keep celebrating together!"Avery's eyes shimmered with unshed tears as she felt the warmth of their love envelop her. "I couldn't ask for a better family or friends. Thank you for believing in me when I struggled to believe in myself."Jake and Mia exchanged proud smiles, and Avery felt a deep sense of gratitude for their unwavering support. As the gathering began to disperse, Avery hugged each person tightly, cherishing the connection they shared. When she reached Jake, she whispered, "Thank you for being my rock.""Always," he replied softly, a reassuring smile on his face.With the last of her guests leaving, Avery turned to her family, who gathered around her in a protective circle. "What now?" she asked, her heart fluttering with the uncertainty of the future.Elizabeth smiled, brushing a strand of hair behind Avery's ear. "Now, we keep moving forward. Together. One step at a time."Henry wrapped an arm around his daughters. "And we're always here for you, no matter what."Avery took a deep breath, feeling the weight of her past slowly lift. In that moment, she realized she was ready to embrace whatever lay ahead. No longer shackled by fear or despair, she felt a new sense of purpose. As the stars twinkled outside the window, Avery knew that this was not just the end of a chapter but the beginning of a beautiful new story—one filled with hope, resilience, and love. With her family and friends by her side, she was ready to write it together.

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