“I didn’t believe you before,” Stacey admitted, sobbing. “I thought you were bitter, but now I see it. He’s a monster, Lily.”
We spent the night piecing together the evidence and identifying other victims. Stacey and I, united by shared betrayal, decided we wouldn’t let Alan continue his destructive behavior.
When Alan returned, he found Stacey gone and me reopening our custody case with the damning evidence we’d uncovered. In court, Alan’s charm couldn’t save him. His true nature was exposed, and he lost custody of our daughters. Stacey filed for divorce, and his carefully crafted facade collapsed.
In the aftermath, Stacey and I found an unexpected bond in our shared survival. Over coffee in my living room, she thanked me for believing her, and I let go of the anger I’d carried.
“We both deserved better than him,” I said.
Now, stronger and united, we’re ready to move forward, free from Alan’s shadow. For the first time in years, the future feels hopeful.