CHAPTER 12: THE FIRST DATE
A year later, I met someone.
His name was David. He was a teacher, kind and patient and gentle. He asked me out for coffee, and I said yes.
The date was simple. We talked for hours, about our jobs, our families, our dreams.
When he dropped me off at home, he didn't try to kiss me. He just said, "I had a really nice time. I'd like to see you again."
I smiled.
"I'd like that too."
We started seeing each other. He met Lily, and she approved.
"He's nice," she said. "He's not like Dad."
"That's the point."
"Does he treat you well?"
"Very well."
"Then I'm happy for you."
We dated for a year.
And then David proposed.
I said yes.
The wedding was small and intimate.
I wore a simple white dress. Lily was my maid of honor. My sister was there, and so were a few close friends.
I looked at David and thought about how far I'd come.
I had survived.
I had healed.
May you like
I had found love again.
And I was finally, truly, happy.
