Chapter 14 - FreedomThe bolt cutters closed around the lock.
Metal screamed.
Clara squeezed harder.
The lock snapped.
For a moment, nobody moved.
Then Clara pulled open the iron door.
Eleanor stared at the opening.
Freedom was only a few inches away.
But after months of imprisonment, freedom felt frightening.
Clara reached inside.
"Come on."
Eleanor tried to stand.
Her legs trembled.
Clara caught her.
"I've got you."
Eleanor collapsed against her daughter's chest.
And finally, Clara broke.
She cried.
Not the controlled tears of someone trying to stay strong.
She cried like a child.
Like a daughter.
Like someone who had spent years wishing for one more chance.
"I'm here, Mom."
Eleanor buried her face against Clara's shoulder.
"I thought you hated me."
Clara closed her eyes.
"I was angry."
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She held her tighter.
"But I never stopped loving you."
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