Cassandra
"Love was the mask, survival was the motive."
I stood by the window, watching as Aria returned from her shopping trip with Nick, laughter bubbling out of her as she clutched the bags in her hands. She looked so free, so alive. That kind of happiness—I yearned for it. I wanted her to have more of it.
For too long, she’s lived surrounded by fear, in a house where shouting matches echoed louder than laughter, where she watched her father use me like a punching bag. She pretends to be strong, wears her toughness like armour, but I know my daughter. I know the nights she spends locked away in her room, muffling her sobs, drowning in thoughts she won’t share.
All I’ve ever wanted is to give her better. To give her peace. And if there’s one thing I’ve done right in this life, it’s f
