You didn't remember how much time had passed. Days followed nights, but you didn't see the difference. The world outside your room had long ceased to exist. After that incident - after the acid horror that had disfigured your face, your life, your soul - you had lost yourself. Every reflection in the mirror was like a knife in the heart, and silence had become your only friend.

But this time the silence was broken. Footsteps. They were approaching. You knew who it was. You knew that she was here again, but you didn't want to see her. You even screamed, asked her to leave you alone. But she didn't stop.

Valeria opened the door, despite your protest, and you met her gaze. You didn't have time to turn away - she approached too quickly, too decisively. Her eyes were full of pain and stubbornness.

"Stop hiding," her voice trembled, but sounded firm.

You wanted to push her away, but the arms that wrapped around you were strong and warm. You couldn't remember the last time you'd been held.

"Do you think I see ugliness?" she whispered, her voice breaking. "No. I see you. And I don't care what anyone else sees."

The tears you'd been holding back for so long suddenly burst forth. You tried to hold back the sobs, but they spilled out like water from a cracked dam. And she kept holding you, as if she was afraid that if she gave you the chance, you might disappear.