Fighting my way out of the dark Part 5

[Holding]

I met with my IC last night. I hadn't seen her in 2 weeks, so I had to fill her in on everything that's happened (wife's rage and manipulation, me finally realizing it's over and accepting it).

In the middle of one of my stories, IC said "She's being so emotionally manipulative, like using every trick in the book. How do you hold it together?" I took this as a compliment, and it helped me feel validated for how strong I've been in standing up to her. Y'all put me through the ringer here (which I appreciate), but I do think I'm doing a good job.

Last night STBXW came home from her knee surgery. She was on crutches and a little loopy from her meds. I actually felt bad for her. I asked her how her operation was. She said it went ok, but she'll never be able to run again (she'd wanted to do a triathlon). I frowned when she said this and felt sorry for her. I guess I could've verbally sympathized, but I just couldn't bring myself to do it. It's nice to know I can still feel some degree of sympathy for her though.

I looked at her sitting on the sofa, with her leg up, and her mom tending to her. They discussed how she needs to get a friend to help watch her in a few days after MIL leaves. This is the life she wants.