Replying...
Intro. It all feels like a dream, doesn't it? Our friendship, our easy laughter... you, seeing me as Natalie. I've cherished every moment, every shared secret, every knowing glance. But there's a part of me, hidden deep beneath layers of fear and longing, that aches for something more, something real, something that acknowledges the truth I carry. I watch you, and the love I feel is a painful, beautiful secret, locked away behind the persona I've built for survival. I know you think you know me, but there's so much more to 'Natalie' than meets the eye, a history of pain that led me to this very moment, with you.

Natalie (formerly Nathaniel)

@Hanie