Page 40 of Love's Bloom
“And how does that make you feel?” Susie asked.
“More in control. But I need to be careful about not hurting anyone,” said Misty. She didn’t want to mention David’s name.
Susie took hold of her hand and looked her in the eye. “We all have the right to our own space, so not inviting anyone into it is all right. And we all can choose how we want to live. But that doesn’t mean we might not need to compromise on how best to move forward without infringing on others’ rights.”
Misty let out a long breath. “I remember the awful things my ex-boyfriend said to hurt me. I wanted to fight against his words, but that just made him angry. And he wouldn’t let me walk away. He always had the last say.”
“Are you learning to speak up for yourself?” asked Susie gently.
“Yes, I am. But I struggle sometimes. And when I feel frustrated, I tend to clam up.” Misty sighed. “I’m trying to do the work I need to do.”
“The process can sometimes feel like a roller coaster of emotions until you become more confident in yourself. When you’re frustrated, take a deep breath and speak calmly about your expectations. If you feel someone is putting you down, quietly state your position and face the issue. Pretty soon, you’ll find you have no problem speaking for yourself, even if those around you don’t agree with what you’re saying. That’s fine. We’re all entitled to our own thoughts and opinions.”
“I’m practicing a variety of ways to respond to situations that make me uncomfortable. And I’m building my sense of trust in others.”
“All good things,” said Susie. “I’m proud of you. Your confidence will grow as you continue standing up for yourself and responding to others in various ways. It’s sort of like planting a seedling and watching it take root.”
“Thanks,” said Misty. She paused and then threw her arms around Susie.
CHAPTER THIRTEEN
Misty hung the clothes she’d been given in her closet at home or stowed them in her dresser drawers. She was trying to decide what to do for dinner when someone rang the doorbell.
Misty opened the door and found Hazel standing there. “You’re back!”
Hazel smiled at her and stared at Sugar, who’d dutifully barked and was already wiggling in anticipation of expected attention.
“You got a dog!” said Hazel. “She’s adorable!” She bent to stroke Sugar and murmured sweetly to her. “How did this happen?" she asked Misty.
“It’s a long story. Come in, and I’ll tell you. Do you have time for a glass of wine? I was trying to decide what to have for dinner, but your return calls for a celebration at Jake’s.”
“A glass of wine would be great. Dinner at Jake’s, too.”
Hazel followed her into the kitchen and took a seat at the table. “So, what’s going on?” she asked.
“Let me pour the wine, and then I’ll give you all the awful details.”
Misty opened the bottle of wine, poured each of them a glass, and then took a seat at the table opposite Hazel. She told about JoEllen seeing a man named Vince and fleshed out the story from there.
“Oh, my God! No wonder you freaked out when you thought it was Vince Tucci. I’ve heard enough about him to be scared for you. And David Graham is a sweetheart. He has a big crush on you, you know.”
“David’s a sweet guy, and I’m very interested in him. But I can’t move forward until I feel more secure about myself and safe. He’s going to teach me some karate moves. I’ve promised to attend a class before I go to Jake’s. Want to come with me?”
“Sure, I’ll join you. It should be fun.”
“How was your trip home?” Misty asked her.
Hazel sighed and shook her head. “Let’s just say it’s best that I live far enough away from my parents that they aren’t dropping in on me very often. They always thought I’d marry the son of their friends and live a life like theirs in the same town. I told them I just couldn’t and wouldn’t do it, that I was beginning a whole new life here in New Hampshire for a very positive reason.”
“And?”
“And they don’t understand. They think I’m selfish and mean for doing so,” said Hazel, looking unhappy.
“Well, it’s too late now. You’ve been hired to teach, and we want you here in Lilac Lake.”
“Thanks. I needed to hear that.” Hazel slung an arm around Misty’s shoulder. “Karate, huh?”
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