Chapter 11

Mia's POV

The sun cast a warm glow over the room as I sat on the couch, my heart heavy with a mix of emotions. Nathaniel sat beside me, his hand interlaced with mine, providing a steady anchor in the storm of emotions that swirled within me.

"Mom," I whispered, my voice trembling. "I don't know how to face this. The pain, the betrayal... it's overwhelming."

Grace, my mother, sat across from us, her eyes filled with understanding and compassion. She reached out and gently squeezed my hand, offering a silent reassurance that she was there for me.

"Mia, my darling," she began, her voice soothing and filled with a mother's love. "I know this is incredibly difficult for you. But in times like these, it's important to remember that healing and forgiveness are possible."

I looked at her, my eyes brimming with tears. "How, Mom? How do I find the strength to forgive and move forward?"

Grace's gaze met mine, unwavering in its conviction. "Forgiveness isn't about condoning the hurt or pretending