I started making plans. The first step was finding a stable place to live. The coworker who had kindly offered their garage knew of a friend who was renting out a small apartment. It wasn’t much, but it was a start. I arranged to see it that afternoon, and by evening, the lease was signed. It felt like the first breath of fresh air I’d had in a long time.

As we settled into our new home, I began to see the world with new eyes. It was as if the act of leaving had stripped away a fog that had clouded my vision for years. I saw people around me, good people, who offered support without hesitation. A neighbor, upon hearing our story, brought over a homemade casserole. Another offered to babysit Jesse while I worked late shifts.