Janet listened intently, taking notes and occasionally nodding in understanding. “You’re doing the right thing, Margaret. It’s time to take back control,” she reassured her. “We’ll start by securing your financial independence and then address the living situation.”

The plan was laid out meticulously. Margaret would regain access to her accounts, establish a secure line of communication that Daniel couldn’t monitor, and eventually find a place of her own. It wouldn’t be easy, but Margaret was determined. For too long, she had lived in the shadow of her own life, watching passively as decisions were made for her, without her.