Life after divorce? I'm capable, employed, and independent. Nothing could be worse than staying tied to an abuser.
I looked at her sadly. You're my mom. Why does appearance matter more than your daughter's life?
Maybe she's just stuck in her ways, struggling to adapt.
With my mobility impaired, where could I hide if he became enraged over the divorce?
I had thought having a happy family and loving parents was enough, despite not having children according to plan.
Now, it's clear I've been on my own the whole time.
I sighed, resigned yet determined, for my sake and for the child I might yet have to forsake.
"Fine, no divorce for now. But I've reported him. If he doesn't suffer any consequences, he'll think he can hit me whenever he wants. You go to the station, and give your statements. We'll handle the rest after I recover."
"I knew you'd have a plan. Don't worry, sweetie. We won't let them get away with this. Your dad and I will demand an explanation from his mother, ensure they don't dare mistreat you again."
Mom offered to stick around and take care of me, which really moved me. I sent her some money for meals—she's doing so much already, she deserves to treat herself.