Tiffany even sent a message from a different number accusing me of destroying the family out of nothing but pride. I kept that message as well and presented it during the hearing for the protective measures.
My lawyer showed the judge the photos of my injury and a message Garrett had sent to Tiffany right after the assault. The message proved that he had intended to take my belongings by force if I did not give them up willingly.
The judge granted the protective orders and the divorce process moved quickly because of the evidence we provided. The house was sold, and the court ensured that I received my full inheritance back since it had been used for the down payment.
Garrett was left with his own debts and the endless problems that Tiffany continued to create for him. I heard later that Tiffany had been arrested for committing fraud against a former roommate and stealing money from a safe.
Garrett left me a voicemail asking for help because he had no one else to turn to, but I deleted the message without responding. I eventually moved into a beautiful apartment near the city center and decorated it exactly the way I wanted.
One evening, Jade came over for dinner and asked me how I was feeling after everything that had happened. I told her that I felt as though I had saved the part of myself that still knew how to be happy.
The small scar on my jaw is still there, but I no longer feel the need to hide it from the world. It is a part of my story now, just like my peace and the new life I have built for myself.
I took back what belonged to me and realized that my real life began the moment I decided to walk away.
THE END.
