7
422words
The two guards inside were no match for our combined strength. We broke free and joined the protective circle formed by the police. Outside, the traffickers were already in handcuffs, lined up in a row.
We escaped, hearts still pounding.
At the station, students from other cities were picked up by parents and local police.
Sarah's parents, seeing her, weren't relieved but disappointed, faces sour.
No compensation meant failure.
The old Sarah might've craved their love. But last life, facing universal blame, they were the first to wish her dead, hating her for the trouble.
This time, she held no hope.
"Thank you, Jessica. Without you, this rescue wouldn't have gone so smoothly."
The officer shook my hand. I grinned."Just doing my part!"
Cracking a major case, I gained fame, winning a" Bravery Award."
At the ceremony, I was shy—my goal wasn't accolades, just doing right.
My parents hugged me, shaken." Sweetie, you should've told us. If you got hurt, we'd be devastated."
I cooed," I know, sorry, Mom and Dad. I was reckless."
Before the press conference ended, I saw a familiar figure.
Sarah, holding flowers, lingered in the corner, unsure whether to approach.
Finally, she stepped forward.
"Jessica, I know I was awful. I don't expect forgiveness."
"Just…be happy every day."
She shoved the flowers into my arms and bolted nervously.
We were seniors, almost ready to graduate. With no more classes on campus, it was unlikely we'd see each other again. I wasn't sure how to feel about her.
Maybe sensing my conflict, she avoided me.
Last life's grudge settled when I didn't stop her this time.
Later, I heard Sarah cut ties with her family, becoming a volunteer teacher in a remote area. Every so often, she sent me local flowers, kids'blessing notes, and her letters:
"Jessica, you gave me a new life, but last life's harm is done. I can't face you."
"I just hope these flowers make you smile—that's my greatest wish."
It's over. I didn't resent her anymore. In one life, she paid with her suicide; in this one, she endured abuse at the hands of traffickers. I had finally moved past the shadow of what had happened.
Online deals are tempting, but we must stay sharp to avoid scams.
I became a cybersecurity ambassador, visiting campuses to share my story, hoping others learn from it.
