I stood, my hand slipping into Julian’s, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. As we turned to leave, I knew that the path ahead would not be easy.

There would be battles to fight and truths to defend. But with each step, I carried Michael’s love, a powerful and enduring force that no slap could diminish.

The world outside the church felt different, filled with possibilities and a future Michael had envisioned. As I walked beside Julian, I was ready to embrace it, ready to honor the life and love Michael had entrusted to me.