Chapter 15 - The Dawn of Freedom
The next morning broke in a blaze of golden light across the mountains.
The lake reflected the brilliant orange and pink hues of the sunrise, the water so still it looked like polished glass.
Rebecca stood at the edge of the wooden dock, her bare feet dipping into the cool water. Lily stood beside her, wearing her bright yellow dress, holding her mother’s hand tight as they watched a family of ducks swim gracefully past the lily pads.
Behind them, Thomas walked down the lawn, carrying a basket of fresh breakfast pastries and three mugs of warm milk and tea.
"Look, Mommy!" Lily pointed out across the lake, her small voice full of pure, innocent wonder. "The sun is so bright today!"
Rebecca looked up at the sky, feeling the warm morning sunlight wash over her face, bathing her skin in pure, golden light. There were no shadows, no fear, no terrifying knockings at the door, and no hands holding her down.
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She looked at her daughter, then back at her father as he reached the edge of the dock with a warm smile.
"Yes, my little one," Rebecca said softly, her voice strong, clear, and ringing out into the morning air. "The sun is bright, and we are finally home."
