I unwrapped the towel from around my body and brought it back up to my hair, gently squeezing to see if I could wring out any more of the lingering dampness. The steam from the shower still clung faintly to my skin, the warmth grounding me in a way I hadn't even realized I needed. That shower had been essential—more than just a daily necessity. It had become a moment to breathe, to realign. Everything lately had been happening so fast, spinning out of control in ways I couldn’t manage. I felt like I was constantly reacting instead of choosing, swept into currents that moved faster than I could think.
My eyes wandered over to the full-length mirror across the guest room, catching a glimpse of myself in the reflection. I paused, just staring. Turning my body slightly, I studied my stomach,
