Chapter 13
Two days later, I sat in Elena Vargas’s office with Mia playing quietly in the corner with some coloring books Elena had prepared.
Elena was in her late forties, sharp, and no-nonsense. She had already reviewed everything I told her over the phone.
“First things first,” she said, folding her hands on the desk. “We need to file for an emergency protective order. What happened at the wedding — the physical assault on you and the assault on Mia — gives us strong grounds. A judge can grant temporary custody to you and order David to stay away from both of you.”
I nodded, even though the word “custody” made my stomach twist.
“Will he be able to see Mia?” I asked.
Elena looked at me carefully.
“Do you want him to?”
I hesitated.
Part of me still wanted Mia to have a relationship with her father. But another part of me — the part that had watched him slap me and do nothing while his mother hurt our daughter — wasn’t sure anymore.
“I don’t know,” I admitted. “Not right now. Not until I know he’s willing to put her first.”
Elena nodded.
“We can request supervised visitation only, for now. We’ll start there and adjust based on his behavior and willingness to cooperate.”
She leaned forward slightly.
“There’s something else we need to discuss. Finances. From what you’ve told me, David controls most of the money. We’re going to need to file for temporary spousal support and child support immediately. We’ll also look into any hidden assets.”
I felt a wave of shame.
I had let David control everything for so long. I had no income of my own. No savings in my name. I had been completely dependent on him.
Elena seemed to sense what I was feeling.
“This is very common in cases like yours,” she said gently. “Abusive partners often isolate their spouses financially. It’s one of their main tools of control. You’re not weak for being in this position. You’re brave for finally getting out.”
I blinked back tears.
“Thank you,” I whispered.
Elena smiled faintly.
“Don’t thank me yet. We still have a long road ahead. But I promise you this — I will fight for you and Mia every step of the way.”
I looked over at my daughter, who was happily coloring a picture of a rainbow.
For the first time since the wedding, I felt a small spark of hope.
I wasn’t alone anymore.
I had Elena.
I had Rachel.
May you like
And most importantly, I had finally decided to fight for myself and my daughter.
Whatever came next, I was ready.
