This is the story that I meant to write when I started writing Stay Mine but the characters took me elsewhere.

So this story will be written with new characters but you may notice some overlap with the Stay series. Just let it be and read this as a new book. I'll make it make sense as you read.

I had initially planned to unpublish Stay Mine, but I think this book will eventually justify it's existence. Please remember that this is all fiction inspired by my observations.

Don't worry. This is just a placeholder for the prologue. I will delete all this and write it properly when my writing gains momentum.

My writing style will be different here. I am trying a first person POV.

***

Physical and sexual abuse are never acceptable. Violence against women—or anyone, for that matter—is unequivocally wrong.

Yet, statistics reveal that 85% of abuse victims return to their abusers.

For victims of abuse, the reality is rarely black and white.

The abuser is often someone they love deeply. This person may be wonderful 99% of the time, providing warmth, affection, and companionship. But with each instance of abuse, the boundaries that victims set for themselves gradually erode.

With love, comes understanding.

Perhaps the abuser has experienced personal trauma, reacting impulsively and aggressively when triggered.

Perhaps they struggle with a temper or an impulse control disorder, feeling profound regret after their actions.

They could be kind, intelligent, and the perfect partner in every other aspect. Yet, when they lose control, they hurt the very person they claim to love.

Do you leave when you know they love you with an intensity no one else could ever match?

Do you stay when you know that one day they could hurt you so severely that your life would be irrevocably changed?

Do you stay when you understand that if the person you love caused you harm, they would be unable to live with themselves afterward?

If you are a victim of domestic violence, the time to leave the relationship is now. If you're not mentally ready to leave, it's crucial to create an exit plan—one that you can execute at a moment's notice.

If you have left an abusive partner, it is normal to experience moments of weakness. You may find yourself reminiscing about the good times, feeling tempted to give them another chance. During these moments, it is essential to remind yourself of the reasons you chose to walk away.

Consider writing down everything they did to hurt you, whether on a piece of paper or in your phone. Keep it accessible and read it during those vulnerable moments. Let it serve as a reminder of why you made the right decision to distance yourself from an unhealthy relationship.

If you left, you made the right decision for you, your partner and for any children you have or may have.

If you stayed, I hope you find the support you need to leave before the next time.

National Commission for Women Helpline: Available 24/7 at (7827170170)

Central Social Welfare Board - Police Helpline: Available at (1091/1291) or (011) 23317004

Shakti Shalini: Available at (10920) or (011)24373736/24373737

SAARTHAK: Available at (011) 26853846/26524061

All India Women's Conference: Available at (10921) or (011) 23389680

JAGORI: Available at (011) 26692700 or +918800996640

Joint Women's Programme: Available at (011) 24619821

Sakshi - violence intervention center: Available at (0124) 2562336/5018873

Saheli - a women's organization: Available at (011) 24616485 on Saturdays

Operation Peacemaker: Available at (1800 212 9131)

Aks Foundation: Available at +91 8793 088 814

Disclaimer:

This book is a work of fiction. Any resemblance to real persons, living or dead, or actual events is purely coincidental. The views expressed are solely those of the author. The author and publisher are not liable for any errors or consequences arising from the use of this book. Readers are advised to use discretion.

Trigger Warning:

This book contains themes of sexual violence, mature sexual content, descriptions of suicidal ideation, eating disorders and self-harm. Reader discretion is advised, as these topics may be disturbing or triggering to some individuals.

If you or someone you know is struggling with similar issues, please seek appropriate support and consider whether reading this material is suitable for you at this time.

Acknowledgement

I would like to acknowledge my room mate and best friend, saltedcaramelswirls  who has always had my back and my husband, for saving me from myself. I would also like to acknowledge Divzvid for her support while I was going through trying times.

A special thanks to the following individuals who supported this book from the start.
SapphirianJ82
StoryTellerAD
AprilJester

Cover collaboration
ahavaenoch

Awards