Carol, feeling guilty, promised to help me. Later, I texted James to come home for a conversation. When he arrived, he was caught off guard by the items I had laid out. He tried to downplay everything, but Carol stepped in and stood up to him,

even threatening legal action if he didn’t handle the separation respectfully.James stormed out, and Carol, now on my side, offered to help me get my life back. The next step was clear: I needed a good lawyer. Carol was ready to support me, and for the first time in months, I felt like I was finally regaining control.