I'm posting one last time because I am so grateful to a all the wonderful people here who gave me much needed advice when I was really down and out.

Shortly after my last post, I kicked my (then) FDH out of the house. I was scared shitless, but I had discovered that everything people were telling me was true. I was suffering at the hands of a manipulator and emotional abuser.

It has been almost two years now, and my life could not be happier and drama-free. My ex was holding me back. I am now getting my PhD and have found the love of my life. A wonderful, supportive, hardworking man who I have absolutely no doubts about. The way it is meant to be!

So one last word of advice: if you are getting responses like "he is using you!" And "that's abusive!" It most likely is true. It's sad because you are so broken down you think everything is your fault and you keep thinking what you can do to change things and make them better. You CAN do something. Leave.

I did, and it turned out to be the best decision of my life!

Thanks again, Steptalk for all the advice and support! I don't have stepkids anymore. It makes me sad that they never even bothered to contact my son at the very least. But I don't miss the drama at all!