It’s a hike—through uncertainty, setbacks, and growth. One step at a time. If you’re a man who’s been through emotional chaos—especially the kind no one sees coming—you’ve probably hit a point where you wondered: “What the hell is wrong with me?”

There were signs, early on, that something was deeply wrong. Moments that crossed lines I’d never seen crossed in past relationships. But I felt sorry for her. I believed she’d been through a lot. I told myself she was just scared—that she needed safety, consistency, love—and if I gave her that, it would all even out.