CHAPTER 3: THE LAWYER
I called a divorce attorney the next morning.
Her name was Rebecca Chen. She was sharp, efficient, and didn't waste time on pleasantries.
"Mrs. Whitmore, I've reviewed your case," she said, her voice calm and professional. "Your husband has a history of financial abuse, emotional abuse, and now physical abuse. You have documentation. You have photographs. You have a strong case."
"What do I need to do?"
"First, you need to file for a protective order. Then we'll file for divorce. And then we'll go after everything he has."
"Everything?"
"He has assets that you're entitled to. The house, the cars, the investments. And based on what you've told me about his sister's spending habits, there may be evidence of financial fraud as well."
I didn't know what to say.
"Are you sure?"
"I'm very sure. But I need to warn you. Your husband is going to fight dirty. He's going to try to destroy you. He's going to try to make you look crazy. Are you ready for that?"
I thought about the coffee. The burns. The years of silence.
"Yes," I said. "I'm ready."
"Good. Let's get started."
I spent the next week gathering evidence. Bank statements. Text messages. Photographs. Everything Daniel had ever done to hurt me.
And then I filed for divorce.
May you like
Daniel didn't know yet.
But he was about to find out.
