During my pregnancy, everything changed with my husband, Arnie. Before, he was caring and loving, always making me feel special. When we found out I was pregnant, he was overjoyed, holding the positive test with a huge smile. But as my body started to change, so did his attitude. He became cold, distant, and harsh.

He mocked how I looked, made cruel comments about my clothes, and dismissed the constant nausea and pain I was going through. One evening, eight months pregnant, I caught him coming home late, smelling like another woman’s perfume. When I asked where he had been, he ignored me and shouted for someone named Jessica.

His cruelty grew worse. He blamed me for not cleaning the house or cooking dinner, even though I was struggling just to stand. He compared me unfavorably to his sister, who, according to him, had managed pregnancy perfectly while still looking good. His words felt like punches. I felt helpless and heartbroken.

Then I found out the truth—Arnie had been cheating on me the whole time. His phone was full of messages from other women on dating apps. My heart shattered, but instead of breaking down, I started planning. I knew I had to protect myself and my baby.