Chapter 7: The Birth of Rena
When I was born… my parents said I looked like an angel.
Mom (smiling through tears):
"Look at her eyes, Jimmy… just like yours."
Dad (beaming):
"She's perfect. Our little angel."
After a few days, when we returned home from the hospital…
All Family (shouting):
"Surprise!"
The house was decorated with balloons and soft pastel lights. Laughter echoed around the room.
Grandfather (gently touching my tiny hand):
"Welcome home, little buddy."
Grandmother (wiping her tears):
"Such a blessing… our first grandchild."
Everyone celebrated. I was the first baby born in the family after a long time—like a beam of light in their world.
Later that night…
Dad:
"So… what should we name her?"
Mom (smiling):
"Rena. It means joy… and born again."
Dad:
"Rena… I love it."
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But here's the truth nobody knew…
Rena (narrating):
"As I grew up, I learned how to smile when needed… how to cry when expected… and how to keep quiet when the world was loud."
"But deep inside me, there were only two things I ever wanted in life…
To die myself. Or make others die."