This story is about my relationship with my body, my visibility, and my sense of safety in the world. It’s about how repeated harm taught me to disappear — and how I am slowly, intentionally learning how to come back.

Before we go any further, I want to name what this story holds. It includes references to sexual violence, abuse, and trauma. There are no graphic details, but the themes are real and tender. Please listen — or read — gently. Pause if your body asks you to. Come back later if you ...