I gradually learned how to apply specialized makeup over my scars when I wanted privacy, and how to display them openly when I felt like making a statement. Surviving a terrible tragedy did not mean I had to feel grateful for the suffering or romanticize the trauma I endured.
Alongside Attorney Vance and Dr. Pratt, I founded a non-profit organization named Modern Image Foundation. Our mission began as a specialized fund dedicated to providing legal resources, burn surgeries, and psychological support for women facing domestic violence, physical attacks, and medical abuse from powerful partners.
Gabriel donated a substantial portion of his personal savings to our foundation and agreed to testify publicly about the corrupt industry tactics used to cover up abuse.
“You still cannot buy complete forgiveness from me,” I reminded him during a board meeting.
“I am still not asking for forgiveness, but simply trying to remain useful to your cause,” Gabriel replied humbly.
Five full years after the brutal attack occurred, I received a hand-written letter sent directly from the state penitentiary.
The letter was written by Christian.
I left the unopened envelope sitting on my wooden desk for two straight weeks.
When I finally broke the seal and read his words, I did not find the arrogant performer I used to adore, but rather a broken man who seemed to finally understand the true weight of his actions.
“For a very long time, I foolishly believed my only mistake was losing control of my public career, but I now realize my true crime was believing I had the right to control your life,” Christian wrote in his tidy handwriting. “I wanted to lock you away in a small, quiet life filled with a private home, money, and complete dependence on my terms, and I am deeply ashamed that I ever called that behavior love.”
He did not ask me for forgiveness in his letter.
He shared that Leo was growing up quickly, that Sabrina had explained the painful truth to the boy, and that his son sometimes missed him while simultaneously resenting his past actions.
I carefully folded the paper back up.
I did not shed a single tear over his words.
I chose not to write a reply back to the prison.
