Someone Waiting Outside
When I stepped into the cool night air, it filled my lungs like a promise. And then I saw him.
Daniel stood near his car, hands tucked in his pockets, watching me with quiet concern.
“How did it go?” he asked.
“They admitted everything,” I said.
“And you?”
I let out a breath I hadn’t realized I’d been holding.
“I’m okay. Better than okay.”
He smiled—slow, sincere, proud.
“You’re stronger than they ever allowed you to be,” he said. “Your grandparents knew it.”
I stepped closer.
“Thank you. For everything.”
“I’m here,” he said softly. “Whenever you want. And Claire… I meant it when I said last night wasn’t pretend for me.”
Something warm bloomed in my chest.
“I’d like to see you again,” I said.
His smile deepened.
“Good. Because your story is just beginning.”
