It was the same manipulation every time. Insult me first. Then blame me for reacting.

“You’re right,” I whispered. “I am cold. And tomorrow morning, you’ll understand exactly how cold.”

Then I hung up.

I did not sleep that night. I moved my savings into a private account, changed my passwords, and emailed my attorney.

By seven the next morning, I was sitting in the lobby in a cream linen suit, drinking black coffee and waiting for the consequences to arrive.