How do I rise
from the mire and muck
that I freely entered
Innocently, naively
Step 1: Change locks
Step 2: Move the money
Step 3: Inform friends and co-workers
Step 4: Borrow for an attorney
Step 5: Have papers served
Step 6: Change phone
Step 7: Notify banks
Step 8: Notify lenders
Step 9: Don’t answer the door
Step 10: Follow through
Don’t answer the door, ignore the knocks, don’t answer the door! Run, he’s inside. Get it, find it, I have to find it. Hands are shaking. There, it is. It’s ready.
I shout, “Get out!" Step 11 is exit.
Step 12: Call 911 Emergency
“Nine-one-one, what is your emergency?“
“I need help. My ex broke in and threatened me. I don’t know his condition. I have a protection order, and he violated it. What? I couldn’t call sooner. I had to protect myself. Someone may need to check on him. I don’t hear anything now. It's quiet in there. I’m outside. He’s inside. I’ll wait for help.”
Copyright © 4/4/2026 by Andrea O. Corwin
I am grateful you read my work! 😃 If you liked it, please like it ♡, drop a comment, and subscribe for free. - - Andi
About the Creator
Andrea Corwin
🐘Wildlife 🧘♀️ 🖋️🈷️ 3rd°🥋 See nature through my eyes and photos.
Poetry, haiku, fiction, horror, life experiences. Written without A.I. © Andrea O. Corwin
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Threads/ Instagram @andicorwin
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Comments (2)
Well-wrought, Andrea! If only divorce were really an end to abusive relationships. But all too often it's only the beginning of an asinine cat and mouse game for the type of people who prize control over others more than themselves.
Oh my, that's soooo scaryyyy and such a close call. Loved your story!