Evelyn, After

by Victoria Helen Stone

Because this was power. The power to do exactly what she wanted and tell everyone else they could go to hell.

Whatever she thought had been taken from her, those were parts she’d given away willingly.

She’d offered love or caring or sacrifice, and if she’d wanted more in return from Gary or Noah or family or friends, it had been her job to ask. But she’d never asked, because she’d been the easy path. For everyone.

Because the truth was that she belonged anywhere she wanted to be, and she was beautiful just for being brave.