I want you to love me, Hardin

Freda's POV

As soon as I heard Hardin say those words, "You're free to go," a wave of conflicting emotions crashed over me. Sadness and disappointment mingled with a sense of relief, creating a whirlwind of feelings that I struggled to comprehend.

On the surface, I knew I should have been celebrating my newfound freedom from the toxic relationship that had consumed my life. But deep down, there was a part of me that couldn't help but feel a pang of sadness. It was as if a piece of me still clung to the hope that things could have been different, that love could have triumphed over the chaos.

I tried my best to hide my true emotions from Hardin, not wanting to reveal the vulnerability that lay beneath the surface but even a child could see through my facade. So with a heavy heart, I wordlessly made my way to my room, seeking solace within the confines of its walls.

As I closed the door behind me, I let out a shaky breath, allowing the weight of my emotions to settle upon my shoulders.