EMBRACE OF FAMILY

As I sank deeper into the warm, soothing water, I felt my worries melting away, like sparkling droplets evaporating in the sun. The relief was exquisite, a sweet escape from the prison of my own making. A radiant smile spread across my face, and I couldn't help but feel a sense of triumphant joy. This was the moment I'd been waiting for – a chance to relive my life, to rewrite my destiny.

"Ms. Nadera, breakfast is ready," my loyal maid's voice chimed in, shattering the tranquility of the moment. I giggled at the interruption, feeling like a rebellious teenager again.

"I'm coming!" I replied, my voice melodious and carefree. The energy coursing through my veins was electric, a far cry from the apathetic person I used to be.

As I dried my hair, I caught a glimpse of myself in the mirror. My emerald green eyes sparkled with a newfound sense of purpose, and my raven-black hair cascaded down my back like a waterfall of night. My porcelain skin glowed with a soft, luminous sheen, and my plump lips curved into a gentle smile. I was a vision of beauty, and I had no idea.

I wore a cozy turtle neck dress, my messy bun held together with a few stray strands framing my face. A light dusting of makeup accentuated my features, and I felt like a butterfly emerging from its cocoon.

But memories of my past life came flooding back, and my smile faltered. I remembered the fitting dresses and glittering parties, the shameless man who had captured my heart, and the stingy woman I had become. A heavy sigh escaped my lips as I realized how far I had fallen.

As I ran downstairs, I was greeted by my mother's warm smile. She opened her arms, and I flung myself into her embrace, tears streaming down my face. "I really miss you, Mom!" I sobbed, feeling like a lost child again.

My mother held me tight, her soothing touch calming my frazzled nerves. "What do you mean, sweetie? We've always been close, even when you were sneaking out to parties," she said, her voice laced with confusion.

I pulled back, grinning from ear to ear. "Let's eat breakfast! I'm starving!" My mother beamed with pride, happy to see me eating again.

As we sat down to eat, my brother stumbled into the room, looking like a sleep-deprived zombie. His oversized T-shirt was stained, and he clearly hadn't showered in days. I raised an eyebrow, amused by his disheveled appearance.

"What are you waiting for? We're waiting for you in here," I teased, my voice dripping with sarcasm. My brother shot me a confused look, sneaking a glance at our mom, who just shrugged in response.

Dad walked in, smiling warmly at the commotion. "Good morning, everyone! I see we're all having a lovely time."

As we began to eat, I asked, "Dad, how's business?" Dad tilted his head, amused by my interest. "It's flowing well, dear. Why do you ask?"

I just smiled sweetly, not wanting to reveal too much. "No reason, just curious."

But then Dad dropped a bombshell. "Oh, and I almost forgot! The Montagues will be visiting next week for your birthday party. Make sure to choose the right man for you."

My heart sank, and I felt like I'd been punched in the gut. But I smiled defiantly, knowing I had the power to change my destiny. "Don't worry, Dad. I'll choose a man who will treasure me, not slander us."

As we finished breakfast, I felt a sense of determination wash over me. I would forge my own path, one that didn't involve heartache and betrayal. The future was bright, and I was ready to shine.

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