Page 140 of Rescuing Mia

“What do you see?” Skye asks softly, her eyes filled with understanding.

I take another deep breath, forcing myself to really look at the face in the mirror.

“I see—a survivor,” I say slowly. “Someone who has been through hell and come out the other side. Someone who is stronger, more resilient.”

Skye smiles, her eyes shining with pride. “That’s right. You’re a fighter.”

I turn to face her, my tears flowing freely now. “Thank you, Skye. For everything.”

She pulls me into a gentle hug, her embrace warm and reassuring. “You don’t have to thank me. You did this. You chose to fight, tosurvive. And now, you’re ready to live the rest of your life without the fear of Red Phoenix lingering over you.”

As I pull back and look into the mirror again. My old face is gone, but the essence of who I am remains.

I am Mia, transformed and reborn.

Ready to face the world.

To carve out a new path and to embrace the future with courage and hope.

“You are the most beautiful woman I know.” Rigel’s voice is soft yet filled with intensity as he steps closer. “And I’ve waited far too long to do this.”

My heart races as he leans down, his breath warm against my skin. He cups my face gently, his fingers tracing the new contours with reverence. The tenderness in his touch makes my heart swell with emotion.

Our eyes lock, and the world around us fades away. All I can see is Rigel, his love and admiration shining in his gaze. Slowly, he closes the distance between us, his lips brushing mine in a tentative, almost reverent kiss.

It’s soft at first, a gentle exploration, but then the dam breaks, and all the pent-up emotions flood out. His kiss deepens, becoming more urgent and passionate. I respond with equal fervor, my arms wrapping around his neck as I pull him closer.

His hands slide to my waist, pulling me flush against his body. It’s a kiss that speaks of promises and a future together.

When we finally pull apart, we’re both breathless. His forehead rests against mine, and emotion glistens in his eyes.

“I love you.”

Tears of happiness blur my vision as I smile up at him. “I love you too. More than words can ever say.”

He kisses me again, and this time, it’s a kiss of certainty, of a future filled with hope and love. In his arms, I find my home, my safe haven.

Together, we’re unstoppable.

Together, we’ll build a life filled with love, adventure, and endless possibilities.

Together, we’ve found love.

This new face is just the beginning of a new journey, a symbol of my resilience and my unwavering spirit.

Tears fill my eyes as I turn to face him. “Thank you,” I whisper. “For everything.”

He pulls me into a gentle hug, his touch reassuring. “We’re in this together, Mia. The best team in the world. Always.”

---