You become hyper-aware of everything: 

- the sound of something being slammed,

- the shift in their mood,

- the look that means things are about to  get worse. 

Even when they’re clam, you’re not relaxed; you’re waiting. Waiting for the next explosion, the next cruel comment, the next broken object.  

You start shrinking yourself, talking softer, doing more, taking blame that isn’t yours; hoping it’ll keep the peace. But nothing ever really keeps the peace. 

The hardest part is the loneliness. Abuse makes you feel trapped, confused, and isolated. You question yourself. You question your worth. You question whether anyone would believe you. 

Living with an abusive partner isn’t just about the moments of violence or yelling, it’s the constant fear, the emotional exhaustion, and the slow, painful loss of your voice, your confidence, and your sense of safety. 

Yet beneath all that, there’s a quiet, stubborn strength that keeps you going; the part of you that knows this isn’t love, this isn’t normal, and you deserve better!!!