I was 7 months pregnant at my brother’s engagement party when my dad handed my Mercedes keys to his fiancée like it was his gift to give. I demanded them back, but instead of

lights. No one was performing. No one was waiting for my father’s approval. No one was using generosity as a leash.

“Yes,” I said. “I think I finally am.”

My phone buzzed once.

Unknown number.

For a moment, my body remembered fear.

Then I opened the message.

It was from my mother.

Happy birthday to Clara. I hope she is happy and safe.

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