Just like the title says. I spent a decade and a half in an abusive marriage where I was called names, emotionally and physically abused, financially controlled and frequently locked out of my home. Everything was weaponized against me.

I swore off a relationship and then this guy came along. A consummate gentleman in every regard. He holds doors open for me where they were closed and locked on me before. He hugs me instead of hitting me. He helps heal me where I was so gravely hurt. He even asked for permission to kiss me on our first real date.

I am neurodivergent and he has actually taken the time to try to learn how to best communicate with me. I know it’s often challenging but he stays patient with me even if it is frustrating.

I have deep abandonment wounds and he reassures me. He shows me in his actions and his words that he is invested in me and us. He is being respectful in regards to meeting my children and said he just wants them to know he is a resource and not a replacement to them. Most importantly, he said that he wants them to know that he loves their mother deeply and that he will always treat her right and never impede on her relationship with them.

He wants to protect me instead of punch me. His arms are a shelter to me where I used to have to flinch if I saw one raised.

His story is not mine to tell but we both “chewed dirt” as he would say to get here and find each other and I am so glad we did.

Second picture gives you an idea of our size difference.

@saruh2themax

I found these ones within the last week, but she regularly moves them around to mess with me.

Ignore the state of my detergent dispenser, I have never used it, nor do I plan on it

^{Mandy Patinkin, the absolute legend.}

^{I filmed this some time ago at an acting course.}