There was no ball. No fairy godmother. No midnight magic. Raised between divorcing parents and then forced under the cruel reign of a stepmother and her family, one girl became invisible - her laughter muted, her voice forbidden. Food became control, blades became release, and perfection became a mask she was forced to wear. The broken slipper is all that remains - its shards sharp but still reflecting the light of a spirit that faded yet refused to die. (Note: Based on actual life events)
Chapter 14 - The Mask Never Slipped
On the outside, I was a helpful child. On the inside, I was fading.
The world saw one version of me. The girl who smiled in church, who helped with the kids, who looked "outgoing" and dependable. To neighbors and relatives, I was proof that the family was solid, that everything was fine. They saw me carrying diaper bags, keeping the little ones in line, step ...
Support this author to continue reading
