I learned to manage my money carefully. I stopped lending money I could not afford to lose. I began saving even small amounts.
My life was not glamorous, but it was mine.
And for the first time in years, I was making decisions without waiting for Daniel’s approval.
Two years passed.
Grace grew into a lively little girl who loved dancing whenever she heard music. She had a habit of asking questions at the most unexpected moments, and her laughter could brighten even the most difficult day.
One evening, while I was preparing dinner, she pointed to a photograph of me from before she was born.
“Mummy, were you a little girl before I came?”
I laughed.
“Yes, baby. I was a young woman.”
“Who took this picture?”
“A friend.”
She considered that answer, then returned to playing with her toys.
It was such a small conversation, but it stayed with me.
