The first time he hit me was because I paid the internet and cable bill instead of waiting on him, despite it having been cut off. I was mortified, but he apologized, told me he was going through a lot, and he didn’t mean it. I was young, sheltered, and in love with him, so I forgave him. Like a lot of women, I made excuses so I could stay with him. He was good-looking, ambitious, and for the most part, treated me well. This was just one small hiccup, I thought. Sadly, he only got worse, and my life with him became reminiscent of an eggshell. I was afraid to do or say anything when we were
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