In her days of living alone, Lin Jin learned how to take better care of herself. She began to enjoy her solitude, practicing yoga on the balcony every morning, feeling the warmth of the morning sun on her skin. She learned to prepare various healthy dishes, meticulously crafting each meal as if to prove to herself that she was worthy of love, especially the love she owed herself.
Liu Xu often came to visit her, and they would go for walks or attend concerts together. Their relationship grew intimate and natural, but Lin Jin was more aware than ever that this time, she would not easily place her entire dependence on anyone. What she needed to do was maintain her sense of self within this relationship and find true balance and independence.
Lin Jin's life gradually became fulfilling. Her consulting career flourished, gaining more recognition and attracting an increasing number of people seeking her help. She felt herself stepping closer to realizing her initial dreams, no longer the person who had lost herself in marriage, but an independent and strong woman—a psychological expert who could take charge of her own destiny.
Standing on the balcony of her small apartment, she gazed at the city lights, her heart filled with hope. She knew that the road ahead might still be fraught with challenges, but she was ready. No matter what the future held, she had the strength to face it, to embrace every challenge, and to seek out her own happiness.
Every night, she would quietly look out the window, reflecting on her journey thus far. She learned not to fear solitude but to coexist with it; she learned how to rise from failure and find new meaning in it. She also learned how to accept herself—embracing imperfections, pain, and struggles—because these experiences shaped her into the resilient person she had become.
Lin Jin understood that her journey toward independence was far from over, but she was prepared to continue moving forward. Her heart brimmed with strength—a steadfast belief from deep within: no matter what trials life presented her with, she had the capability to confront them, grow from them, and shine with her own light.
In helping Zhang Xiaohui, Lin Jin gradually witnessed Zhang Xiaohui's transformation. From a woman who had been suppressed by her husband and lost her confidence, Zhang Xiaohui began reclaiming her life step by step.
One day, while helping Zhang Xiaohui tidy up her living space, Lin Jin accidentally discovered some business plans buried in a corner. The papers were slightly yellowed, but the detailed plans and careful annotations clearly reflected a passionate effort. Lin Jin looked at these documents in surprise and asked, "Xiaohui, what are these?"
Zhang Xiaohui fell silent for a moment; her eyes glistened with unshed tears as she softly replied, "Those were my dreams. During my marriage, I wanted to open my own little shop and sell handmade crafts. But my husband didn't like it; he thought I shouldn't have such 'unrealistic' ideas." She wiped away a tear from the corner of her eye and continued, "I had to give them up, but all these years, I've never truly let go."
Lin Jin listened quietly and gently took Zhang Xiaohui's hand. "You know what? Xiaohui, you are stronger than you think. Perhaps it's time to pick those dreams back up."
Zhang Xiaohui looked at Lin Jin with a glimmer of light in her eyes. In that moment, it felt as if she had made a decision. Months later, Zhang Xiaohui indeed started her handmade craft business. Although the beginning was tough, her creations gradually gained appreciation and recognition from clients. A smile began to appear on her face as she looked forward to the future filled with hope.
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