i dont get the refusal to consider a lawyer.

a lawyer is exactly what you need right now. someone with direct knowledge.

you dont have to act on it. but you need the real information. not a hunch or a feeling or what you want to feel is fair.

if they lawyer tells you you deserve more, its your choice to what to ask for.

but at least you'll know.

"In a ham and eggs breakfast, the hen is involved, but the pig is committed".