Maybe I would use more of my money on myself. That trip to Italy I had always wanted to take. Those painting classes I was interested in. Maybe I’d renovate this apartment—not because I needed to impress anyone, but because I deserved it. Maybe I’d invest more in my other restaurants, expand the business. Maybe I’d start a foundation to help single mothers who were struggling, just like I had.
The possibilities were endless. And for the first time in a long time, I felt like my life belonged to me again.
My phone vibrated again. Another message, but this time from an unknown number. I opened it curiously.
Asterisk, “Mrs. Helen, this is Martin Reyes from the restaurant tonight, table 18. I witnessed what happened with your family. I just wanted to say that what you did was extraordinary. The respect you showed for yourself, the dignity with which you handled the situation was inspiring. My wife and I are regular customers, but after tonight, we are admirers. Thank you for reminding us that standing up for yourself isn’t cruelty, it’s self-love.”