In the quiet darkness of her backyard, Annemarie sat in wonder, gazing at the brilliance of a full moon. A “super moon” technically, though she couldn’t remember at the moment what its special name was tonight… Harvest moon? Hunters moon? It didn’t matter. The beauty was positively hypnotizing as the moon dazzled like a jewel, with twinkling stars sprinkled all around it in the perfect, clear night sky. Its glow illuminated the woods with gentle moonbeams filtering down between the trees.

One would think seeing red flags in a relationship would make a logical, intelligent person walk away. But in the mirage, sweet temporary moments and beautiful, empty promises keep a sensitive, people-pleasing, empathetic soul hanging on. One begins to romanticize the situation, seeing the red flags as something to be fixed with patience and extra love. Feeling the “right” thing to do is prove unwavering love, loyalty and strength to ultimately win the prize of earning reciprocation.

Writing saved her.
Words strung together, forming a lifeline to pull her from the deepest, darkest, swirling waters of heartbreak and despair.
Phrases came to her, as if divinely inspired during moments of trying her best to think of anything but the confusing sting of betrayal.