The laughter still echoed in my mind, a haunting reminder of the callousness that my family displayed. It was hard to believe that the people who were supposed to love and protect us could be so cruel. My mind replayed the events over and over, each repetition fueling a growing resolve within me. I knew I had to protect Jesse, to ensure he never again felt like he was anything less than cherished.
The next morning, I woke up with a clarity and determination I hadn’t felt in years. I had spent too long being passive, accepting my family’s behavior as just another part of life. But now, the stakes were higher. It wasn’t just about me; it was about Jesse and his future. He deserved a life free from fear and belittlement, and I was going to give it to him.
