Maritza often thought about leaving, but the weight of tradition and the fear of the unknown kept her anchored. In her culture, family was sacred, and the idea of breaking it apart felt like a betrayal. She worried about what people would say—the gossip at the bakery, the judgmental looks at church. She didn't want to be the woman whose marriage failed. More than that, she feared Ricardo. His threats were never idle, and his reach felt long.
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Gently guide them toward local advocates or national hotlines. National Resources for Help Maritza often thought about leaving, but the weight