Emily maintained her composure, though inside she felt a tumult of emotions. “Richard, you’re free to live your life however you choose. But if you want to stay here, you’ll treat this home—and everyone in it—with respect. I won’t tolerate anything less.”

There was a long pause, the silence stretching out like a taut wire. Emily’s heart raced, but she stood firm, her resolve unshakable.

Finally, Richard nodded, his bravado replaced by a begrudging acceptance of the new reality. “I… I see,” he said, eyes lowered, the fight gone from his voice.