I take the next few days to myself, avoiding the whirlwind of calls and requests. I need this break. I spend more time at home, reconnecting with the quieter parts of life that I've missed.
One evening, I sit by the window, watching the sun set, and a feeling of peace washes over me. It's been so long since I just sat still and allowed myself to breathe.
As I enjoy the calm, there's a knock at my door. It's my mom. She steps in, her expression soft and concerned. "Lila, we've barely seen you these past few weeks."
"I know," I say, guilt bubbling up. "I've just been... really busy."
She sits down on the edge of my bed, and for the first time in a while, I feel like she's not just my mom, but someone who truly wants to understand me.
"You're doing amazing things," she says gently. "But don't lose sight of who you are in all of this."
Her words take me by surprise. I've always thought my parents were more focused on my academic success than my happiness, but in this moment, I realize that maybe I've underestimated them.
"I'm trying not to," I admit, my voice quieter than I intended. "It's just a lot to handle sometimes."
She nods. "It's okay to slow down, Lila. You've accomplished so much already, but you don't have to do everything at once."
For the first time in a long time, we sit together in silence, a mutual understanding passing between us. I lean into the stillness, feeling a new sense of balance settle within me.
YOU ARE READING
HEART'S IN THE SHADOWS
FantasyLila has always been the forgotten child, overshadowed by her parents' attention toward her half-siblings and younger brother. Despite her love and dedication, she is treated as little more than a servant in her own home-unseen, unheard, and unloved...
