I did not receive a magical check for everything I’d ever sacrificed.

I received enforceable terms, copies of the documents, and a plan that no longer depended on Daniel’s promises at the dinner table.

Before signing, I insisted the agreement be explained in words I understood.

Marcus read the key provisions aloud, and I asked questions until I was satisfied.

I had spent too many years nodding to keep the peace.

“Are you certain?” Marcus asked me at the end.

“Yes.