Eventually, she understood that he had been right for reasons neither of them recognized then.
Love had made her generous.
It had not obligated her to remain where generosity was mistaken for weakness.
The note on the electric bill had not been revenge.
It had been the first honest instruction she had given him without cushioning it.
His mother believed he could do better.
Emily finally agreed.
He could learn to do better for himself.
And she could choose a life in which being loved did not require disappearing into someone else’s comfort.
