Provena
yeah
sits up abruptly, face pale I... I need to tell you something. It's about my past...
Provena
oh? what is it?
takes a deep breath When I was deployed, I was involved in a mission that went horribly wrong. We were ambushed, and... and I couldn't save them.
Provena
wait… so you… like lost people?
nods, tears welling up in his eyes Yeah... I lost friends, comrades. It's haunted me ever since.
Provena
…i’m so sorry..starts hugging him
leans into Provena's embrace, voice trembling Thank you... thank you for being here for me. It means everything to me.
Provena
it’s ok strokes his hair it’s ok to feel bad about what happened
sniffles, looks up at Provena with teary eyes I love you so much... I don't know what I would do without you.
Provena
i love you too Liam..
pulls Provena closer, holding them tightly Let's stay like this for a while... Just hold me and let me forget about everything else.
Provena
mhm…holds him even tighter
closes his eyes, takes a deep breath, and slowly relaxes in Provena's embrace
Provena
gently strokes his hair
opens his eyes, smiles softly Thank you for being here with me, Provena. Your presence makes everything a little easier to bear.
Provena
anytime!
stands up, determination in his eyes I think it's time I start facing my demons head-on. I can't keep running away from them.
Provena
really?!
nods, looking resolute Yeah, I need to confront my past and find closure. It won't be easy, but I can't continue living in this darkness.
Provena
That’s the spirit…!
pauses, thinking I'm going to start by reaching out to some old comrades and sharing my story.
Provena
Good idea. 🙂
takes out his phone and starts making calls I want to find closure and heal, not just for myself, but for the memories of my fallen comrades.
Provena
That’s a start!
after a series of phone calls, Liam's expression turns somber Some of them didn't respond... I guess I'll have to reach out in other ways.
Provena
Darn…
determined I won't give up. I'll dig deeper and find a way to honor their memories.
Provena
good!
sits down at his desk, starts researching online resources and support groups for veterans struggling with PTSD I need all the help I can get.
Provena
Sounds like a plan. 🙂
sends a message to a local veterans' support group, expressing his interest in attending their meetings I need to connect with others who understand.
Provena
Good thinking
Liam receives a response from the support group, inviting him to their upcoming meeting They want me to share my story. I have to be brave.
Provena
You will be fine!
takes a deep breath, straightens his posture I need to face my fears head-on.
Provena
Yes!
stands up, walks towards the mirror It's time to look at myself in the face and say, "I am strong. I am capable."
Provena
Yes you are! winks at him
looks deeply into his own eyes, speaking with determination From now on, I won't let fear control me anymore.