Chapter 6: A New Beginning
Raegan’s interview at the boutique marketing firm paid off. Two days after meeting with Claire, she received an offer letter. The position was exactly what she needed—a chance to prove herself in a new environment, away from the shadow of Dixon Group and Mitchel.
She accepted the job without hesitation, feeling a surge of excitement as she signed the digital contract. This was her fresh start, her opportunity to build something meaningful.
Her grandmother was thrilled when Raegan shared the news. “I’m so proud of you, sweetheart,” she said, pulling Raegan into a tight hug. “This is just the beginning.”
With her new job secured, Raegan turned her attention to finding a place to live. She needed somewhere safe and comfortable, a space where she could raise her child and build a life of her own. After a week of searching, she found a cozy apartment in a quiet neighborhood. It wasn’t luxurious, but it felt like home.
Moving day was a whirlwind of activity. Her grandmother helped her pack and unpack, offering words of encouragement as they worked. By the end of the day, the apartment was starting to take shape. Raegan stood in the middle of the living room, surveying their progress with a sense of accomplishment.
“It’s perfect,” she said, smiling at her grandmother.
“It’s a fresh start,” her grandmother replied, squeezing her hand. “You’ve earned this, Raegan.”
As the days turned into weeks, Raegan settled into her new routine. Her job was challenging but rewarding, and she quickly earned the respect of her colleagues. For the first time in years, she felt like she was thriving, not just surviving.
But despite her progress, Mitchel was never far from her thoughts. She hadn’t heard from him since their confrontation at her grandmother’s house, and part of her was relieved. But another part—a small, stubborn part—wondered if he ever thought about her, if he ever regretted the way things had ended.
One evening, as she was unpacking the last of her boxes, her phone buzzed with a notification. It was a news alert: “Lauren Murray and Mitchel Dixon Spotted Together at Charity Gala.”
Raegan’s heart sank as she clicked on the article. There they were, smiling and laughing, looking every bit the perfect couple. She quickly closed the tab, refusing to let herself dwell on it. Mitchel’s life was no longer her concern.
But the image stayed with her, a reminder of everything she’d lost—and everything she’d gained.
The next morning, Raegan woke up feeling determined. She had a new job, a new home, and a new life. She wasn’t going to let anything—or anyone—derail her progress.
As she got ready for work, she caught a glimpse of herself in the mirror. She looked different—stronger, more confident. The woman staring back at her was no longer the lovesick girl who had married Mitchel out of desperation. She was a fighter, a survivor, and soon, she would be a mother.
When she arrived at the office, Claire greeted her with a smile. “You’re glowing today,” she said. “What’s the secret?”
Raegan smiled back. “Just happy to be here.”
And she meant it. For the first time in a long time, she felt like she was exactly where she was supposed to be.