My best friend and I had always been inseparable. We laughed together, cried together, and shared everything. I knew all the details of her life—her family, her job, her boyfriend. But one night, after a few too many drinks, she opened up about something that left me speechless.
She confided in me that she had been in an abusive relationship for over two years. Her boyfriend had been emotionally and physically abusive, but she never felt like she could escape. She was ashamed to admit it to anyone because she didn’t want to seem weak or incapable. She had been living a nightmare in silence.
I was horrified and heartbroken for her. How could I have not seen the signs? It made me realize that even the strongest, most outgoing people can be suffering in ways we never understand. That night, we made a pact that she would never have to face that alone again. It was a turning point in our friendship, and I promised to be there for her no matter what.
