But I was working through it, trying to be gentler with myself while also holding space for the reality that my decisions had consequences. Understanding that I’d been manipulated didn’t erase those consequences, but it helped me move forward without getting stuck in shame. 3 months after I changed the locks, Victoria called with unexpected news.
My husband’s lawyer had contacted her to say they were accepting the divorce terms without contest. He wasn’t going to fight over property division or try to claim any part of the house or my other assets. He just wanted the process over as quickly as possible. Victoria said she was surprised because she’d expected him to drag things out for months.
I asked what changed and she said she didn’t know for sure, but suspected he’d finally talked to a lawyer who explained exactly how ironclad the prenup was. Whatever the reason, he’d given up. The divorce would be finalized in 60 days, ending a 2-year marriage that never should have happened. I felt relief more than sadness when Victoria gave me the news.