"Anna. Long time no see," He extended his hand and I reluctantly took it. "Long time no see Joax," I greeted. "Wait. Magkakilala kayo ni Joax?" tanong ni tita. Naramdaman ko ang kaba sa mga tingin niya. Agad akong umupo at umiwas sa mga tingin niya. "Yes po tita. He was my... friend." I said with a smile. I still couldn't forget what he did to me. To us. He broke my trust and he broke me in the process.
"I'm tired." I whisper, my voice breaking. "I can't do this anymore. It's too much."
He pulls me closer and holds me as he always does. "You're a strong girl. People look up to you, Mina. You'll get through this, okay? You're not alone. You're a beautiful girl and you have us."
I shake my head. "If ever I am, I'm just another pretty girl that's broken inside."
He holds me tighter and I feel his chin resting on my head as I break down in his arms. "Well, I guess you're beautifully broken then."
I sob, my body heaving at the pain, wondering how he always sees beauty in an ugly broken girl.
***
Just a little warning. Though there are no graphic or detailed pictures in the story, this is a story based on a school project I had on human trafficking and abuse. Thank you for reading.
(not edited. Thanks for reading:)