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Mark had continued to reach out occasionally, but his messages had grown shorter, less emotional. Eventually, they stopped. Through therapy, Laura learned that love without respect isn\u2019t love\u2014it\u2019s dependency. She began working part-time from home, saving money, and planning a future that revolved around stability, not fear.<\/p>\n
One afternoon, while shopping for baby supplies, she saw Mark across the parking lot. He looked different\u2014tired, older. Their eyes met briefly. He walked over, hesitantly. \u201cYou look good,\u201d he said softly. \u201cHow\u2019s the baby?\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cShe\u2019s doing great,\u201d Laura replied, her hand instinctively resting on her belly. \u201cI\u2019m doing great, too.\u201d<\/p>\n
He nodded, tears glistening. \u201cI still regret that night,\u201d he said. \u201cEvery time I drive that car, I remember what I did.\u201d<\/p>\n
Laura offered a small smile. \u201cThen let it remind you to treat the next person better,\u201d she said, turning away before the conversation could reopen old wounds.<\/p>\n