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*Sicilian Coast – One Year Later*
Dawn draped gold across the cliffs of Taormina, where the sea whispered against ancient stone and orange blossoms danced on a salty breeze.
Claire stood at the edge of the bluff in a champagne-silk suit of her own design—sharp lines, deep pockets, no corset. Just freedom.
The silk shimmered in the morning sun like liquid courage.
Behind her, rows of white chairs faced a shell-lined aisle. No paparazzi. No press.
Only people who understood healing took time.
Survivors, advocates, and old friends filled the seats—girls she'd once taught to sew now laughing in pastel dresses. Partners from shelters across the globe wiped their eyes as they watched her mother, now softened by time and truth, gently take Claire's arm.
“You're not alone this time," h
