Chapter 10 - Chapter 10: This Version of Me is Not Up for Debate

I've been many versions of myself.The overgiver.The one who stayed silent to keep the peace.The one who showed up for people who never showed up for me.The one who broke in private just to appear strong in public.But this version?This version of me is different.This version doesn't chase love because I am love.This version doesn't shrink to fit in rooms I've outgrown.This version doesn't beg for closure, attention, or validation.I've earned this version with sleepless nights, shattered moments, and quiet rebuilds.I've bled for this peace.I've cried for this strength.I've fought through hell just to come back whole. This version of me isn't up for debate. Not with you. Not with them. Not even with the past version of myself who didn't believe I'd make it here.I no longer explain my growth to people who benefited from my wounds.I no longer apologize for becoming who I was always meant to be.You either honor this version—or you lose access to it.And don't get it twisted—this version of me still has scars.Still gets triggered.Still has moments of doubt.But the difference is…I no longer unpack there.I feel. I process. I move. I grow.I've outlived what tried to destroy me.Outloved what tried to harden me.Outgrown what tried to shrink me.So if you knew the old me—good. Respect her. She carried me through things I'll never fully talk about.But she's gone.And the me who's writing this now?She's bulletproof.Not because life got easier,But because I got wiser.Clearer. Stronger.And finally—free.