Chapter 9

I wrapped my arms around myself when the icy water struck my body, shivering as droplets of moisture made their way down my exposed skin.

I closed my eyes and tilted my head up towards the shower head, letting the cascading stream cleanse away all of my aches and pains. I savored this moment of solitude as if it was a precious and fragile thing, savoring the simple pleasure of being able to enjoy myself in peace. I remained like this for what felt like hours until I finally had enough.

I turned off the shower and stayed there for a few moments, hesitating to open my eyes. When I eventually did, the first thing that confronted me was my reflection in the glass door of the shower. My gaze followed along every curve of my body, lingering for just a moment on certain spots. It was strange to look at myself like this; even after years of living with myself, seeing this reflection felt like gazing upon something new. The details were all familiar, but I couldn't help but to curse at myself.