Chapter 8 - Gathering Strength
Morning sunlight filled the kitchen of the safe house. Eleanor met with a family law attorney named Jessica. Jessica was provided by a local legal aid charity. She was fierce and experienced in dealing with abusers. They spent hours preparing for the upcoming custody hearing. Jessica explained the legal strategy to keep Mark away forever. Eleanor practiced her testimony until her voice stopped shaking. She learned how to answer questions without showing fear. The other women in the shelter offered their emotional support. They shared stories of survival and strength. Eleanor realized she was part of a strong community now. She looked at her baby smiling in the bouncy seat. Every ounce of fear was slowly turning into pure courage. She was ready to face her abusers in the courtroom. No one would ever intimidate her again.
