Paraphrased Version:
When Colin proposed, I didn’t hesitate. He was everything I had ever wanted—loving, kind, and devoted. After three wonderful years together, planning our wedding felt like the natural next step. But then, everything changed.
My mom got sick.
She had always been a strong presence in my life—overbearing, protective, and deeply involved in everything. After my father left, it was just her and me. While her love was constant, it often came with strings attached. She made decisions for me, from school to relationships. Still, I loved her.
When she fell ill, the wedding became secondary. We spent all our savings on her treatment, and I gave up my job to care for her full-time. Colin stood by me, even when we had to cancel the wedding.
Months went by with no improvement in her health, but I didn’t question it. I was too consumed by fear and the daily grind of caregiving until I decided to get a second opinion from Dr. Green, a top specialist.
He reviewed her medical records, growing more concerned with each page. Then, he told me something I couldn’t comprehend: “Your mother isn’t sick.”
I was stunned. He explained that her symptoms could be psychological—or even fabricated.
In disbelief, I went home to find my mom on the couch, pretending to be frail. When I confronted her, she confessed. She had made it all up—bribing doctors, taking fake medications—just to keep me from marrying Colin and leaving her.
That’s when I realized how much I had sacrificed—years, a future with Colin, and parts of myself—all because of her fear.
“I’m leaving,” I said through tears, and I meant it.
I packed a bag and called Colin. When I told him everything, his response was simple: “Come home.”
And I did.
The following months were filled with healing and therapy. Colin and I planned a small, quiet wedding—just us, no drama. I wrote my mom a letter, telling her I loved her but needed to live my own life.
When I stood with Colin on our wedding day, holding his hand and promising forever, I knew this was the life I almost lost.
It was worth fighting for.
If this story touched you, share it with someone who needs the reminder: it’s never too late to take back your life. 💕
Leave a Reply