The moment I knew wasn’t just about the kiss or the message. It was everything leading up to it—the lies, the distance, the feeling that something wasn’t right. I walked away, heartbroken but clear-headed.

When I reached my car, there was a text from my mom: “I’m here for you. Call me when you’re ready. Also, here’s the number for a good divorce lawyer.”This Christmas wasn’t what I expected. Instead of joy, I got the painful gift of truth. Now, I’m facing a new year of rediscovery, healing, and finding happiness on my own terms.Life’s unpredictable. All we can do is pick up the pieces and move forward.