There is a moment that alters you when you finally feel seen by someone. Especially after being deprived.

A touch lingers a little longer.

Eye contact becomes more intense.

They laugh at your jokes.

They respond to you with curiosity.

You excitedly talk over each other, not out of rudeness, but because you’re both thoroughly enjoying the banter.

I would never cheat.

This was a chance encounter. No numbers exchanged. No plans.

Just a reminder of who I was. Who I am when I feel seen.

Who she is when she feels connected to herself. Who she is when she feels a real connection with someone else.

Not the woman who has self-abandoned.

Not the woman who makes excuses for receiving less than what she deserves.

The woman she once was, no, is… but who is waiting to be let out.

She’s clawing her way out. She’s fierce. She’s beautiful. She’s desirable. She’s funny and interesting.

She will not be locked away ever again.