Chapter 6 - What Derek Called Discipline
Derek’s control had not started with bruises.
It began with small corrections.
Sarah folded laundry incorrectly.
Spent too much on groceries.
Called her parents too often.
Took too long in the shower.
Derek said he was helping her become more responsible.
When she became pregnant, the rules multiplied.
No driving after dark.
No visiting friends unless he approved.
No social media.
No personal bank card because “pregnancy brain” made her careless.
Sarah protested at first.
Derek responded with silence.
He would ignore her for days.
Sleep on the sofa.
Tell her stress could harm the baby.
Eventually, Sarah apologized for upsetting him.
The first time he grabbed her wrist, she tried to leave during an argument.
He held her until she stopped moving.
Then he cried.
He said he was frightened she would fall.
The second time, he left fingerprints.
He bought flowers.
The third time, he told her:
“You know what makes me do this.”
Sarah began cleaning whenever he played video games because it kept her visible and quiet.
If the house was messy, he accused her of becoming lazy.
If she cleaned too slowly, he turned the television louder and insulted her.
That afternoon, he ordered her onto the floor despite her pregnancy.
Leah had heard everything from behind the locked door.
Frank listened without interrupting.
Then he asked Sarah:
“Did he ever apologize without blaming you?”
She looked at Derek.
No.
Every apology had included a reason she caused it.
Frank stood.
Derek tried to smile.
“Marriage gets ugly sometimes.”
May you like
Frank’s expression did not change.
“Control gets ugly. Marriage is not your excuse.”
