“One,” I whispered.

Renata placed her palm gently beside mine.

“One,” she agreed.

<strong>PART 8: A HOME THAT DID NOT BELONG TO HIM</strong>

The days after the rescue did not feel like a victory march.

They felt like appointments, forms, sleepless nights, and the work of learning how to make decisions without anticipating Garrett’s reaction.

Priya helped me speak with an advocate about temporary housing, legal support, and a protective order.

Renata offered me a place near her home, but we agreed to work with the professionals on arrangements that would not reveal our plans unnecessarily.