𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟓, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Dear Diary,

Today was another day at school, surrounded by friends and laughter. It's funny how everyone sees me as this happy, popular girl. But inside, I feel a sadness that I can't explain. Jacob, my boyfriend, has been acting so cruel lately. He gets angry over the smallest things and sometimes it turns physical. It hurts, both physically and emotionally. I wish I could find the strength to leave him, but I feel trapped.

I started the day with Isla by my side. She's been my best friend since we were little, and I'm grateful to have her support. We walked to school together, sharing stories and laughter along the way. Isla always knows how to make me smile, even when I'm feeling down.

During English class, Mr. Thompson played a scene from "Dead Poets Society." It's one of my favorite movies, and I couldn't help but get lost in the powerful words of Robin Williams. "Carpe diem. Seize the day, boys. Make your lives extraordinary." Those words resonated with me, reminding me that I have the power to change my own story.

At lunchtime, Isla and I sat under our favorite tree in the courtyard. The sun peeked through the branches, casting a warm glow on our faces. Isla noticed the sadness in my eyes and gently asked if everything was okay. I hesitated at first, but then I opened up to her about what I've been going through with Jacob. Isla listened attentively, her eyes filled with empathy and concern. She promised to stand by my side and help me find a way out of this toxic relationship.

In the afternoon, I had History class with Mr. Johnson. He's known for his passionate storytelling and today was no different. He recounted the events of the French Revolution, bringing the characters to life with his animated gestures and theatrical voice. It's moments like these that make me appreciate the power of knowledge and the resilience of the human spirit.

As the school day came to an end, Isla and I decided to grab a hot chocolate from our favorite café. The familiar aroma of freshly brewed coffee filled the air as we settled into a cozy corner booth. Isla shared stories about her latest adventures and we laughed until tears streamed down our faces. In that moment, surrounded by warmth and friendship, I felt a glimmer of hope. Maybe, just maybe, I can find the strength to break free from the chains of this abusive relationship.

Until next time,

Nellie

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏𝟔, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Dear Diary,

What a day it's been. Yesterday was a whirlwind of emotions, and I needed some time to process everything. Today, I woke up with a mix of emotions—fear, confusion, and determination.

After meeting up with Isla for coffee, I came home feeling uplifted. But when Jacob's anger erupted later that evening, it was a harsh reality check. The pain from the incident still lingers, both physically and emotionally.

Today, I've been reflecting on what happened. It's not easy to come to terms with the fact that someone I love could hurt me like that. But I refuse to let fear control me. I deserve better, and I won't settle for anything less than love and respect.

I've realized that I can't face this alone. I need support from people who understand and can guide me through this difficult journey. It's scary to admit what's happening, but I know it's the first step toward healing.

I won't let this define me or my future. I'm determined to break free from the cycle of abuse and find happiness and safety.

I'll keep you updated on my life.

Until next time,

Nellie

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟐𝟕, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟒

Dear Diary,

I don't even know where to begin. My heart feels heavy, and my mind is filled with a mix of fear and determination. Today, I made the decision that I've been dreading for far too long.

I'm going to break up with Jacob.

It's not easy to put into words how I ended up in this situation. At first, everything seemed perfect. Jake was charming, attentive, and made me feel like the luckiest girl in the world. But slowly, things started to change. His words became sharp, his temper unpredictable. I found myself walking on eggshells, afraid of setting him off.

I've been hiding the truth from my friends, apart from Isla, and family, pretending that everything is okay. But deep down, I know it's not. The emotional and sometimes even physical abuse has taken its toll on me. It's time to break free from this toxic cycle and reclaim my life.

I've gathered the strength to do this because of the incredible support system I have. My friends have noticed the changes in me, the bruises I've tried so hard to conceal. They've been there for me, offering their unwavering love and encouragement. They've reminded me of my worth, and I'm eternally grateful for their presence in my life.

Tomorrow, I will meet Jake in a neutral place, surrounded by people who can ensure my safety. I will speak my truth, firmly and without wavering. I will tell him that I deserve better, that I deserve to be treated with respect and kindness. It won't be easy, but I know it's the right thing to do.

I'm scared of what may happen after I break up with him. I know he won't take it lightly, and his anger may escalate. But I refuse to let fear hold me back any longer. I am strong, resilient, and deserving of a love that lifts me up instead of tearing me down.

As I write these words, a sense of empowerment washes over me. I am taking control of my own happiness, refusing to let anyone dim my light. I know the road ahead won't be easy, but I'm ready to face the challenges and rebuild my life, piece by piece.

Diary, thank you for being a safe space for me to pour out my thoughts and emotions. Tomorrow marks the beginning of a new chapter in my life.

Until next time,

Nellie

𝐎𝐜𝐭𝐨𝐛𝐞𝐫 𝟏, 𝟐𝟎𝟑𝟖

Hey there, Diary!

Wow, it's been such a long time since I last wrote in you. It's crazy to think that the last time I poured my heart out on these pages, I was just an 18-year-old girl trying to navigate the ups and downs of life. So much has changed since then, and I can't wait to catch you up on everything.

First things first, I finally found the strength to break away from that awful ex-boyfriend, Jacob. It wasn't easy, but I knew I deserved better. And guess what? I found better. His name is Rue, and he's the most amazing man I've ever met.

I remember the day we first met like it was yesterday. It was a sunny afternoon, and I was sitting in a coffee shop, lost in my own thoughts. Rue walked in, and our eyes met. There was an instant connection, a spark that I couldn't ignore. We struck up a conversation, and from that moment on, I knew he was someone special.

Fast forward to now, Rue and I have built a beautiful life together. We have a precious daughter named Wren, who brings us so much joy and laughter every day. And guess what? We have another little bundle of joy on the way! Our family is growing, and I couldn't be happier.

Isla, my dear friend, is Wren's godmother. She's been there for me through thick and thin, and I couldn't imagine anyone better to play such an important role in my daughter's life. It's amazing how friendships can stand the test of time and continue to grow stronger.

Speaking of time, the reason I picked up this diary again after all these years is because Wren asked if she could have a diary of her own. It brought back memories of my own experiences with you, Diary, and I wanted to share that with her. I want her to know that she can always turn to the pages of a diary, just like her mom did, to document her thoughts, dreams, and emotions.

Life is truly a beautiful journey, Diary. And as I embark on this new chapter with my loving husband, our precious daughter, and our little one on the way, I can't help but feel grateful for the resilience that brought me here. I'm excited to see what the future holds and to continue writing the story of our lives together.

Until next time,

Nellie