Her voice was barely audible, like a whisper of wind: “Thank you.” And that short word seemed to explode in the space, filling the air with light, warmth, and wonder. The tension dissipated.

People couldn’t hold back their tears and smiles.

It was as if a door to her heart had opened. Kristina felt, for the first time in a long while, light flowing from within. Her eyes shone with relief.

That moment became a turning point.

— Kristina — Alexey said quietly — I know it hurt you. But you’re not alone. I’m here, and I want to help you find yourself again.

She met his gaze. Something inside her reignited — uncertain, but alive.

Scenes from the past surfaced in her memory: a bright classroom, brushes dipped in paint, happy children’s faces. She realized a voice cannot be hidden, because it’s part of who she is.

The following days marked the beginning of her journey back to herself. She took up the brushes again. She painted everything she felt — pain, hope, forgiveness.

With Alexey’s help and new acquaintances, she began to speak — through colors, music, a gentle smile.

One of her first works was a canvas where a ray of sunlight breaks through dark clouds. That painting inspired the entire team.

Her voice was still soft, but with each day it grew stronger. Kristina understood that sometimes, to hear yourself again, you have to go through complete silence.

Now she knew that words, art, and love can bring life back. It all began with one word — “thank you.”

Some time passed. She taught again, created, helped others.

The bank organized an exhibition of her paintings. People saw in them the strength born from pain.

Together with Alexey, Kristina founded a charity to help those in difficult situations. Because no one should feel forgotten.