We went to the bathroom
because I had friends over
and didn’t want to fight
in front of them.
He called me a stupid bitch.
I was used to that.
He blocked me from leaving.
I was used to that.
He pushed me back.
I was used to that.
My legs landed on the edge of the tub.
My head hit the hard, gray tile.
I sat there crying,
legs hanging in the air
like a discarded rag doll.
I wasn’t used to that,
but you never are
the first time.
Escalation
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About the Author
Samantha Jones is the associate editor of Carroll County Newspapers and has been a storyteller all her life. She's inspired by strong women who pave the way for other women to succeed. Her writing focuses on the topics people don't like to talk about, like domestic violence, mental illness and grief. By being transparent about her struggles, she hopes to start conversations that encourage understanding and empathy. She lives in Eureka Springs, Ark., with her husband, Gideon, and their orange tabby cat BJ.
