Her words carried a soothing quality, and I could sense that her heart was in the right place. There was a gentle warmth in her tone, as though she had spoken these same comforting words a thousand times before, and had learned just how to make them land where they were needed most. I could feel her genuine concern, and for a moment, I allowed myself to believe that there was a chance for things to turn around. “They have their reasons for acting this way; they’re not bad-hearted people. Soon, we will work together to win everyone’s hearts for you.”

Her kindness and openness were like a balm to my wounded spirit. I hadn’t realized how much I had been holding inside until now, when her words seemed to unlock something in me. I tried to keep my composure, but the tears that had been threatening to spill all evening began to press forward again. I blinked rapidly, trying to force them back, but it felt like I was holding on to something fragile—something that might shatter if I let go.