Rejoice held onto these words like a lifeline. Her reflection no longer frightened her; instead, it fueled her resolve. She was determined to rise above her circumstances, refusing to be defined by Monica’s cruelty or the scars that marked her face.

As Rejoice grew older, her academic excellence earned her a scholarship to a prestigious university. The little girl who once whispered to the stars was now a young woman, ready to take on the world. She studied diligently, focusing on medicine—a field she felt drawn to after experiencing the compassion and care of the nurses who had tended to her burns.

University life was challenging, but Rejoice thrived. She formed friendships with classmates who saw beyond her scars, valuing her for her intelligence and kindness. Together, they studied late into the night, fueled by coffee and dreams of making a difference in the world.

During her final year, Rejoice received an unexpected letter. It was from her father, who had tracked her down after hearing of her achievements. He expressed his pride in her accomplishments and his regret for leaving her behind all those years ago. The letter stirred a mix of emotions within Rejoice, but it also brought closure. She forgave him, understanding that he too had faced difficult choices.

After graduating with honors, Rejoice returned to her village, determined to give back to the community that had supported her. She opened a small clinic with the goal of providing affordable healthcare to those in need. Her reputation as a skilled and compassionate doctor quickly spread, attracting patients from neighboring villages.