That lies were protection.
That the person controlling her was the only person she could trust.
But recovery had taught Tess something stronger.
A real protector does not have to frighten you into needing them.
A real guide does not hide the path home.
And freedom is not just an unlocked door.
It is knowing you are allowed to walk through it.
As the sun disappeared behind the canyon walls, Tess took one last look at the landscape that had once terrified her.
Then she turned toward the marked path.
This time—
she stayed on it.
And walked out under her own power.
