Returning to Quincy, I kept a low profile. While there was comfort in the familiar, with family and friends to support me, there was also Nev's family nearby. I didn't want him to know where I lived or want any contact with Nev, partly out of fear that I would break down and go back to him. I knew I wasn't strong enough yet to confront him, not yet. Knowing that I asked my family and friends not to share with his family where I might be living or give them any information, for now.
     Learning of my arrival from her son, almost as quickly as I stepped into town, Pat began contacting my family to advocate for her son and my return to Phoenix. At first, I objected to meeting with her, but after several months of persistent harassment, his mother finally m...

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