I spent the following days in deep thought, contemplating my next move. The idea of revenge wasn’t about stooping to his level but about reclaiming my self-respect and making him realize the weight of his words. I was determined to transform the humiliation into empowerment.

First, I reached out to a lawyer. It was time to understand my options for the future.

I needed to be prepared, to know that I had the power to leave if and when I decided to. Knowledge was my new armor, and every bit of information fortified my resolve.