I'm in tears, Arpad. I can relate to too much of this story from Lauren's perspective, and also from yours - because once you learn how to tear yourself away and why you ended up stuck there in the first place, it's a horror to see others - especially one's own daughters or other loved ones - caught in the same trap.

I'm so glad your father taught you two of the most important lessons a person can ever learn. Standing up for yourself is essential in a million different ways, and it took decades of healing before I learned how to do that.

And sticking up for those who are vulnerable. I don't need to elaborate on why that one matters.

How I wish that just once, someone would have protected me, as you tried to do for Lauren. But the ones who should have been protecting me were the ones who were doing the most harm. My mother, my older brother, every one of my six husbands, and other "close" relatives.

As always, Arpad, brilliant storytelling, keeping me glued to the screen and barely breathing with suspense.

Thank you for sharing this wonderful confirmation of what a beautiful soul you are.