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Chapter 3 - THE ROAD AHEAD

The afternoon sun filtered softly through the curtains as Destiny wiped her hands on a towel, finishing her chores for the day. The house was quiet too quiet. She stepped outside for a breath of fresh air, letting the gentle breeze brush against her skin. The scent of blooming flowers and freshly cut grass filled her senses, helping to lift her spirits.

As she strolled around the garden, Destiny's mind wandered to her future. She thought about what lay ahead the kind of life she wanted to build for herself and her baby. The fear and uncertainty were still there, but they were slowly being replaced by determination.

She wanted more than just survival. She wanted stability, a sense of purpose, and a chance to stand on her own two feet.

Sitting on the small bench under the mango tree, she began to outline quiet dreams in her heart: finding a job, creating a warm and safe home for her child, and proving to herself that she was strong enough to start over. A faint smile tugged at her lips as she whispered to herself, I can do this.

Back inside, Destiny grabbed her laptop and sat at the kitchen table. She began scrolling through job listings online, but nothing felt right. The jobs were either too demanding or required experience she didn't have.

Just then, a message popped up from her friend Cynthia.

Cynthia: "Babe, have you ever thought of writing? There's this site where you can write novels and get paid!"

Destiny blinked at the message, her heart skipping slightly. Writing It was something she had always loved telling stories, creating worlds, bringing emotions to life. The thought of turning that passion into a career felt both thrilling and terrifying.

She opened a few tabs and began researching. The more she read, the more excited she became. There were real people writers like her making a living through their stories. She could work from home, stay safe, and still build something meaningful for herself and her baby.

That night, Destiny decided to take the leap. She created an account on a popular writing platform and began brainstorming ideas. Her fingers trembled slightly as she typed her first few lines, but soon, the words began to flow.

For the first time in months, her heart felt light.

When her ex-in-laws returned home that evening, Destiny greeted them with a bright smile.

"I have some good news!" she announced eagerly.

They exchanged curious glances. "What is it?"

"I've started writing novels online," she said, her eyes sparkling. "Cynthia told me about it, and I decided to give it a try."

Her ex-mother-in-law's face softened into a smile. "That's wonderful, Destiny! We're so proud of you."

Her ex-father-in-law nodded approvingly. "It's good to see you happy again, my dear. Follow your passion."

Destiny told them about her story ideas, the characters she was developing, and the joy she felt writing again. Her excitement filled the room, and for the first time since David left, laughter and warmth filled the house.

Later that evening, as she cooked dinner, Destiny shared more about her writing journey and about Fredrick's unexpected visit earlier that day. Her ex-in-laws listened with care and empathy, offering words of encouragement and praise.

When dinner was ready, they sat together, enjoying the meal and the comfort of each other's company.

"Destiny, you're a strong young woman," her ex-father-in-law said between bites. "Whatever comes your way, I believe you'll overcome it."

"Thank you, Father," she replied with a grateful smile.

"Be blessed, my child," he said softly.

Her ex-mother-in-law reached across the table and patted her hand. "I'm happy your brother came to see you. He must love you dearly."

Destiny laughed lightly. "He does. He came without notice gave me quite the surprise. I miss him already."

After dinner, Destiny washed the dishes and went to her room. Sitting at her small desk, she opened her laptop again. The soft glow of the screen illuminated her face as she began typing.

Her story was slowly taking shape, and every word she wrote felt like healing. She poured her emotions into her characters her pain, her strength, her hope. Writing became her therapy, her way of breathing again.

By the time she closed her laptop, she felt content and at peace. The ache in her heart hadn't vanished, but it no longer consumed her. She was building something new one word at a time.

The next morning, Destiny woke up early, energized and refreshed. She hummed softly as she prepared breakfast freshly baked bread, omelets, and tea. The warm aroma filled the air, drawing her ex-in-laws into the kitchen.

"My dear, you shouldn't be stressing yourself," her ex-mother-in-law said, smiling at the sight.

Destiny chuckled. "Mommy, don't you love the aroma?"

"I do," she replied fondly, "but you must remember to take care of yourself and my grandchild."

"I will," Destiny said warmly, serving them plates of food.

They ate together, chatting about their day. Destiny shared her writing goals, and her ex-in-laws offered gentle advice and encouragement.

When they left for their restaurant, Destiny sat back at her desk, determined to keep going. She opened her laptop, and soon her fingers were flying across the keyboard. Words came easily now like they'd been waiting inside her all along.

Hours passed without her noticing. By evening, she had finished another chapter. A soft smile spread across her face.

Destiny stepped outside, breathing in the evening air. The garden was bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun. She closed her eyes and whispered a quiet prayer of gratitude.

For the first time in a long time, the future didn't feel frightening. It felt promising.

And with every word she wrote, Destiny was slowly rewriting not just her story but her life.

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