Lucy started her daily walk to work, feeling the weight of her growing belly with each step. The journey felt longer and more challenging every day as her pregnancy progressed. She adjusted her bag on her shoulder, trying to ease the strain. The path wasn’t easy, with uneven sidewalks and occasional traffic making it harder. Despite the difficulties, she kept moving, determined to reach her destination. Dan watched as Lucy set out every morning, insisting that walking was good for her and the baby. He believed the exercise would keep her healthy and strong. Each time Lucy voiced her discomfort, Dan would dismiss it with a wave, saying it was all part of the process. ‘You’re doing great,’ he’d say, giving her a peck on the cheek. ‘It’s just a little walk; you’ll be fine.’ Lucy’s parents were less convinced about the benefits of her daily walks. They frequently voiced their concerns about her walking such a long distance while heavily pregnant. ‘It’s too much for you,’ her mother would say. ‘You need rest at this stage.’ Her father would nod in agreement, worrying about the added stress on her body. They urged her to find another way to get to work, perhaps a bus or ride-sharing. Dan dismissed their worries, asserting that Lucy was strong and capable. ‘She’s not a fragile doll,’ he would say. ‘Walking is good for her.’ He was adamant that Lucy could handle the trek, even as her pregnancy progressed. To him, their concerns seemed overblown. Lucy tried to reassure her parents, echoing Dan’s words, but inside she felt the strain of each day’s walk growing more pronounced. Lucy encountered numerous difficulties on her route, starting with the weariness that set in faster each day. Her feet ached, and the constant movement made her back throb with discomfort. Some days she would trip over a crack in the pavement or get splashed by a passing car. Other mornings, she contended with harsh weather, be it scorching heat or an unexpected downpour, making the journey even more tiresome. At work, Lucy’s colleagues began to notice her fatigue. She arrived at the office looking worn out, with noticeable bags under her eyes. Although they saw how tired she was, they didn’t fully understand what she was going through. They attributed her exhaustion to typical pregnancy symptoms and didn’t suspect the added strain from her daily walks. She put on a brave face, hiding the full extent of her weariness and discomfort. One day, feeling more drained than usual, Lucy confided in her close friend, Julia. Over lunch, she explained how exhausting the daily walks were becoming. ‘I feel like I’ve run a marathon every morning,’ she said, pushing her salad around her plate. Julia listened intently, her brow furrowing with concern. ‘That’s too much, especially now,’ Julia said. ‘You shouldn’t have to do this. You need to talk to Dan again about it.’ Following Julia’s advice, Lucy decided to talk to Dan again. Julia had advised honesty and firmness, suggesting Lucy lay out all the physical symptoms she was experiencing. ‘Just tell him how it’s affecting you,’ Julia had insisted. With a renewed resolve, Lucy planned out her approach, hoping Dan would finally see the toll the walking was taking on her. She braced herself for the conversation that evening, steeling her nerves. That evening, Lucy tried to persuade Dan to let her take the bus instead of walking. ‘I’m exhausted, Dan. The walks are too much,’ she began, feeling a lump form in her throat. Dan nodded but his response was firm. ‘Lucy, we’ve talked about this. Walking is good for you and the baby.’ His refusal was unwavering, and he dismissed her complaints, insisting yet again that it was for her own good. Over time, Dan became increasingly controlling, dismissing every concern Lucy voiced. Whenever she complained about her discomfort or exhaustion, his reactions grew more irritated. ‘You’re overreacting,’ he’d snap, avoiding her eyes. His insistence on her walking seemed almost obsessive. Lucy felt trapped, forced to adhere to his demands despite her growing discomfort. Each morning, she set out on the long walk, feeling more isolated and controlled than ever before. Lucy’s parents, concerned about Dan’s adamant insistence on the walking, decided to delve deeper. They started by casually asking Lucy more about Dan’s reasoning, hoping to uncover something concrete. Sensing something was off, they couldn’t let it rest. They began to observe Dan’s behavior more closely, lurking in the background, trying to stitch together fragments of information that Lucy occasionally let slip during conversations. They had to understand why. As Lucy’s parents dug deeper, they uncovered inconsistencies in Dan’s explanations about their financial activities. His reasons for not providing alternative transportation seemed hollow and evasive. They noticed discrepancies in their bank statements and unusual financial activities that Dan dismissed too quickly. Curious and growing ever more suspicious, they knew they had spotted something but weren’t yet able to fully grasp the extent of it. They kept their discovery quiet, planning the next steps. Meanwhile, Lucy started to observe changes in Dan’s behavior. He became more secretive and erratic, often staying late at work or slipping away for undisclosed errands. He was distant, and his actions didn’t match his words. Lucy found herself questioning his motives, wondering what could be driving this sudden change in him. She knew something wasn’t right but couldn’t pinpoint exactly what it was. The strain in their relationship grew palpable. Lucy’s parents finally summoned the courage to confront her about their concerns. They laid out what they had discovered, emphasizing their growing worries about Dan’s behavior and financial discrepancies. Lucy, feeling cornered and defensive, tried to deflect their concerns. ‘Dan would never do anything to hurt me or the baby,’ she insisted, clinging to the last threads of her belief in him. The confrontation left her feeling confused and fraught with emotion. Determined to protect Lucy, her parents decided to monitor Dan’s actions more closely without alerting him. They kept a lookout for any unusual behavior, dipping into bank records and shadowing his movements as discreetly as possible. They were meticulous, logging every inconsistency they discovered. They believed they were closing in on something nefarious but needed more evidence before they could approach Lucy again with their findings. It was a delicate operation. During one of her walks, Lucy narrowly avoided an accident. A car swerved dangerously close to her, missing her by inches. She stood frozen for a moment, heart pounding, the scare leaving her visibly shaken. The realization of how fragile her situation was hit her hard. She thought about her baby and the risks she was taking every day. Gathering herself, she continued her walk, but the fear lingered like a shadow. Shaken by her near accident, Lucy told Dan about the incident that evening. She expected sympathy or a change in his stance, but Dan’s reaction stunned her. He seemed more concerned about the missed opportunity for her exercise than her safety. ‘You have to be more careful,’ was all he said, his tone indifferent. Lucy felt her frustration bubble up, but Dan’s dismissive attitude left her speechless and more alarmed. Lucy’s parents dug even deeper, finding more troubling signs of Dan’s unusual purchases and mysterious bank transactions. The amounts and items listed were inappropriate and unexplained. They had been careful up to this point, avoiding explicit questions but capturing every odd transaction. This new information painted a disturbing picture. They were convinced something more sinister was at play. Their urgency doubled, recognizing the need to keep a closer watch on Dan’s actions. Despite Lucy’s increasing alarm and fatigue, Dan continued to pressure her to keep walking. Every time she asked for a break or a ride, he grew more insistent that she stick to the routine. ‘It’s for your health,’ he would reiterate, ignoring her pleas and the obvious strain. Lucy felt like she was pushing through a fog of exhaustion, each step becoming more laborious under the weight of Dan’s relentless expectations. One morning, a concerned neighbor offered Lucy a ride, seeing her struggle down the street. Gratefully, Lucy accepted, but when Dan found out, he forbade her from accepting rides from anyone. ‘It’s not safe,’ he declared, his tone brooking no argument. The neighbor was puzzled by Dan’s fierce reaction, but his objections left Lucy with no choice but to walk again. She felt more trapped than ever, her options dwindling. Lucy started to grow suspicious of Dan’s intentions. Each time she mentioned feeling worn out or needing a break, Dan’s responses felt increasingly off. She noticed how he sidestepped her concerns with vague reassurances. She couldn’t shake the feeling something was amiss, but uncertainty kept her from confronting him. She watched his every move, trying to piece together why he was so insistent on her walking every day. Her parents, alarmed by Lucy’s growing complaints, decided to dig deeper into Dan’s background. They began making discreet inquiries, reaching out to old acquaintances and searching through public records. The more they looked, the more inconsistencies they found. Dan’s history seemed riddled with dubious business dealings. Their search confirmed their worst fears: there was something suspicious about Dan, and they needed to understand his motives better. Through diligent investigation, Lucy’s parents discovered Dan had a history of shady business dealings. This revelation was shocking but also explained much of his odd behavior. There were reports of failed ventures, dubious partners, and whispers of unethical practices. This dark history cast a long shadow over their current situation. They compiled this information, realizing it could be the key to understanding Dan’s true intentions and protecting Lucy. The strain of daily walks was starting to show more clearly on Lucy. She began experiencing more severe symptoms from the stress and physical toll. Her feet constantly ached, and she felt an overwhelming fatigue that seemed to worsen each day. Worry set in, but she felt trapped between Dan’s demands and her own deteriorating health. Each walk became a painful reminder of her precarious situation. She tried to mask her discomfort, but it was getting harder. A visit to the doctor raised immediate alarms. The stress and physical strain from the daily walks were putting both Lucy and her baby at significant risk. The doctors sternly warned her about the potential dangers, emphasizing the urgent need to rest. They were clear: continuing this routine could have dire consequences. Armed with medical advice, Lucy felt a newfound resolve to confront Dan, hoping he would finally understand the severity of the situation. Lucy’s parents were adamant now: she needed to stay home and rest. They pleaded with her, sharing the doctor’s warnings and their own growing fears. However, Dan remained unyielding, using his charm and persuasive tactics to convince Lucy to keep walking. ‘It’s for your health,’ he insisted, drawing on the same well-worn arguments. Conflicted and exhausted, Lucy reluctantly resumed her daily routine, despite the increasing risks and her parents’ desperate pleas. The situation had become intolerable for Lucy’s parents. They decided it was time to take more drastic measures to protect their daughter and unborn grandchild. With Dan’s history now partially unveiled, they knew they needed to act before things got worse. They discussed their options and started planning a more aggressive approach to gather evidence and possibly involve authorities. Every day of delay only heightened their sense of urgency. Lucy’s parents began compiling all the evidence of Dan’s suspicious activities. They gathered documents, recorded conversations, and kept a meticulous log of his movements and financial transactions. Each piece of evidence was another step towards understanding his true motives. It was painstaking work, but they believed it was necessary to protect Lucy. The picture they were assembling painted an increasingly alarming story, one they hoped to use to confront Dan and ensure Lucy’s safety. One evening, Lucy overheard a conversation between Dan and an unknown caller. She couldn’t catch every word, but what she did hear troubled her deeply. Phrases like ‘get it done’ and ‘no loose ends’ sent a chill down her spine. She tiptoed away, her mind racing. This was the confirmation she dreaded: something was definitely wrong. The conversation raised her suspicions higher than ever, making her more determined to uncover the truth. With her suspicions now bolstered, Lucy started closely monitoring Dan’s actions. She took note of his every move, trying to find any clue that would reveal his real motives. She began researching how to protect herself and her baby, looking up resources and places she could turn to for help. Her trust in Dan was crumbling, replaced by a steely resolve to uncover the truth and ensure their safety. She knew it was time for action. Lucy’s parents decided to dig deeper into Dan’s insurance policies. They enlisted the help of a friend who worked in the industry. Astonishingly, they discovered that Dan had recently taken out a large life insurance policy on Lucy without her knowledge. The policy had alarming terms, highlighting that any ‘accidental’ death would result in a significant payout. This finding confirmed their worst fears and heightened their urgency to protect Lucy. Armed with the new information, Lucy decided to confront Dan. She approached him calmly, asking about the insurance policy. Dan’s reaction was immediate and intense; he lashed out, accusing her of mistrust and invasion of privacy. His deflections were aggressive, and he shifted blame, making Lucy feel cornered. Despite his anger, her resolve strengthened. She realized she needed to be cautious and planned her next steps carefully. One morning, during her usual walk to work, Lucy felt unusually lightheaded. She tried to push through the dizziness, but her body had reached its limit. Halfway there, she stumbled and fainted, collapsing onto the sidewalk. Concerned passersby rushed to her aid and called an ambulance. She was taken to the hospital, her condition critical due to the extreme stress and physical strain she had been under. It was a wake-up call for everyone. Seeing Lucy in the hospital was the final straw for her parents. The sight of her fragile state ignited a fierce determination within them. They knew they couldn’t wait any longer to take action. While Lucy rested under medical supervision, her parents vowed to protect her at any cost. They began to map out a strategy to ensure her safety, knowing that confronting Dan directly was too risky without solid evidence. In secret, Lucy’s parents contacted a lawyer who specialized in domestic issues and insurance fraud. They set up a discreet meeting to discuss their situation and explore their options. The lawyer listened carefully, noting every detail of Dan’s suspicious behavior and the recent discovery of the insurance policies. She assured them that they had valid concerns and needed to continue gathering evidence to build a strong case against Dan. The lawyer advised Lucy’s parents to remain vigilant and not to confront Dan until they had more concrete evidence. She emphasized the importance of documenting every interaction and gathering as much information as possible. The lawyer also suggested keeping close communication with Lucy’s medical team to ensure her health records could support their case. This strategy would help them protect Lucy while preparing for any legal actions they might need to take. Back at home, Lucy reflected on her recent hospitalization. The incident forced her to reevaluate her situation and prioritize her safety and her baby’s well-being. The realization that Dan’s actions could have endangered their lives was a turning point. She began to seriously consider leaving him, understanding that staying might cause more harm. Lucy started making quiet plans, thinking of ways to escape the toxic and potentially dangerous environment. Dan sensed the shift in Lucy’s demeanor and became increasingly paranoid. His behavior grew more controlling, and he began monitoring her every move. He questioned her constantly, making it clear he didn’t trust her anymore. Lucy found it harder to hide her plans, but she knew she had to be patient. Her parents’ investigation was closing in on the truth, and she needed to buy time until they could act decisively. Lucy confided in her best friend, Jenny, who had always been a pillar of support. Together, they carefully planned a safe escape from Dan. Jenny offered her house as a temporary haven and helped Lucy prepare an emergency bag with essentials. They set up a code word for emergencies and rehearsed the plan multiple times. Lucy felt a glimmer of hope, knowing she wasn’t alone and had a way out if things took a turn for the worse. Lucy’s parents finally made a breakthrough in their investigation. They discovered that Dan had been manipulating insurance documents and involved in a fraudulent scheme to profit from Lucy’s potential demise. With solid proof in hand, they contacted law enforcement to present their findings. This moment marked the tipping point. They were ready to take legal action and protect Lucy from the danger she had unknowingly been living with. Lucy’s parents were combing through Dan’s personal files when they stumbled upon a folder. Inside, they found documents outlining a chilling plan. Dan had detailed blueprints to stage an accident, aiming for a massive insurance payout by leveraging Lucy’s policies. The complexity and premeditation were horrifying. The reality of Dan’s intentions sunk in, leaving no doubt that Lucy and her unborn child were in immediate and severe danger. Realizing the immediate danger Lucy was in, her parents didn’t waste a second. They rushed out of the house, hearts pounding. Driving through the traffic with a sense of urgency, they were determined to reach Lucy before it was too late. Coordinating their efforts, they called Lucy repeatedly but couldn’t get through. With every minute counting, they couldn’t help but imagine the worst scenarios, praying they’d arrive in time to prevent a disaster. When Lucy’s parents arrived, they finally managed to contact her and urged her to stay home from work. Confused but trusting her parents, Lucy called in sick and remained at home. She kept the doors locked and stayed away from the windows, unsure of what her parents had discovered but sensing their urgency. In a rare moment of peace, Lucy took a deep breath, focusing on the safety of herself and her unborn child. Dan arrived home to find Lucy had not gone to work. His face twisted with fury, and he demanded an explanation. Lucy’s calmness seemed to enrage him further as he stormed around the house, throwing accusations and making wild gestures. Lucy, keeping her resolve, cited health concerns for her absence. Dan’s growing anger revealed an increasingly dangerous side, reinforcing Lucy’s fears and validating her parents’ warnings about confronting such a volatile man. After Dan left the house in a fit of rage, Lucy’s parents seized the moment to show her the evidence they had uncovered. They laid out the documents showing Dan’s elaborate plan to stage an accident. Lucy’s eyes widened as she read the heart-stopping details. The depth of Dan’s deceit was mind-boggling. Her parents’ expressions of concern and determination only confirmed the truth of what lay before her. Shocked and horrified, Lucy scanned the documents again, her mind reeling. The extent of Dan’s deception was more than she had ever imagined. This was not just a case of mistrust or dishonesty – it was a calculated plan to endanger her life for financial gain. Understanding the severity of the situation, Lucy felt a mix of fear and resolve. She knew she had to take immediate action to protect herself and her unborn child. Lucy’s parents urged her to contact the police. They feared for her safety and the unborn child’s life. Presenting their case to law enforcement seemed the only viable option to ensure legal protection. Despite the shock and emotional turmoil, they impressed upon her the necessity of immediate action. The seriousness in her parents’ voices and their unwavering support gave Lucy the courage to consider the frightening but essential step. Lucy hesitated, her mind swirling with what-ifs and the fear of escalating the situation. But the urgency of her parents’ advice finally broke through her paralysis. She realized that inaction could result in dire consequences. The images from the documents flashed through her mind, confirming that Dan was capable of dangerous measures. Steeling herself, Lucy understood that delaying any further could jeopardize everything. She agreed reluctantly but resolutely to make the call. With trembling hands, Lucy dialed 911. Her parents stood by her side, offering silent strength. She explained the peril she was in, detailing Dan’s plan and the immediate threat to her safety. The urgency in her voice conveyed the seriousness of the situation to the dispatcher, who assured them help was on the way. The weight of the moment was overwhelming, but taking this step felt like the first move toward reclaiming her life. Lucy’s parents stayed by her side, providing unwavering support through the crisis. As the police arrived and took statements, her parents held her hands and reassured her constantly. The legal process was daunting, but knowing she wasn’t alone provided immense comfort. They discussed next steps, including securing a safe place for her to stay. Their solidarity fortified Lucy’s resolve, making her determined to navigate this difficult time with courage and hope. The police arrive promptly and carefully listen to Lucy’s story. Her parents present the collected evidence, including the documents detailing Dan’s sinister plans. The officers take extensive notes and ask follow-up questions to clarify important details. They assure Lucy and her parents that this information will be taken seriously. The gravity of the situation becomes clearer as the officers acknowledge the immediate need to protect Lucy and her unborn child from further danger. Law enforcement begins investigating Dan’s activities without delay. They scrutinize the incriminating documents and start piecing together the broader picture. They reach out to financial institutions and insurance companies, looking for contacts and previous instances of fraud that could link back to Dan. The coordinated effort aims to uncover the full extent of Dan’s malicious schemes. The urgency is palpable, knowing that any delay could result in further attempts to endanger Lucy. Dan senses that the walls are closing in on him, but he continues to act in a highly suspicious manner. He makes hurried phone calls, destroys potential evidence, and becomes increasingly paranoid. His erratic behavior only serves to confirm Lucy’s and her parents’ worst fears. Despite his growing suspicion of being discovered, he tries to maintain a façade of normalcy while seeking ways to evade detection. His actions paint a troubling picture. The police gather more evidence linking Dan to the fraud scheme. They discover bank records and emails that further incriminate him, revealing connections to other fraudulent activities. Interrogating Dan’s known associates, law enforcement uncovers testimonies that paint a comprehensive and damning picture of his deceitful practices. Each new piece of evidence strengthens the case against him, building a solid foundation for potential charges. The noose tightens, and the inevitability of Dan’s downfall becomes clearer. Lucy starts the process of filing for a restraining order against Dan. Supported by her parents and legal advisers, she completes the necessary paperwork and submits it to the court. The gravity of taking such a step weighs heavily on her, but protecting herself and her unborn child takes precedence. The legal system’s involvement provides a sense of security, though the emotional toll of the situation remains significant. Orderly but determined, Lucy moves forward. Her parents help her secure a safe place to stay away from Dan. They coordinate with friends and family to find a temporary home where Lucy can feel secure. Arrangements for her to move in are quickly made, ensuring she has everything she needs to start fresh. This safe haven offers Lucy the peace of mind she desperately needs, far from the threat of Dan’s erratic and dangerous behavior. Support surrounds her. The police inform Lucy’s parents about the progress of the investigation. They share details about the evidence collected and the next steps in the legal process. The officers reassure them that they are taking all necessary precautions to keep Lucy safe. Her parents find some solace in the thoroughness of the investigation but remain vigilant. They know the battle is not over yet and continue to support Lucy as they await more updates. Lucy receives overwhelming support from friends and colleagues as she prepares for the worst. Messages of encouragement flood in, offering emotional and sometimes financial help. Friends visit, bringing meals and necessities, easing some of the burdens Lucy faces. This collective show of support strengthens her resolve and reminds her that she’s not alone in this struggle. Her community’s backing proves indispensable, helping her navigate the complexities of the situation with courage. Dan is placed under surveillance by the police to prevent any harm to Lucy. Officers monitor his movements closely, tracking his interactions and communications. The aim is to ensure that he has no opportunity to carry out any further nefarious plans. This heightened scrutiny puts Dan under immense pressure, making it increasingly difficult for him to hide his intentions. The police presence acts as a deterrent, providing a layer of security for Lucy. The investigation reveals that Dan’s actions were part of a larger fraudulent plan. Law enforcement uncovers a network of schemes, showcasing Dan’s extensive criminal activities. Multiple individuals and entities are implicated, unraveling a complex web of fraud. The depth of his deception stuns everyone involved. This discovery transforms the case from a personal betrayal to a significant criminal enterprise. For Lucy, the revelation is bittersweet, knowing that justice might finally be served. Dan’s plan involved staging an accident during Lucy’s daily walk to work. He plotted to have her hit by a car and claim the insurance money. Meticulously, he planned every detail, from the timing of her walk to the orchestrated accident site. Unbeknownst to Lucy, every step she took was part of Dan’s twisted scheme. His desperation for financial gain had reached a perilous peak. His next move would put everything in motion. Lucy’s parents realized the immediate danger their daughter was facing. An eerie sense of urgency gripped them as they pieced together Dan’s deceitful plan. They contacts authorities to intervene before it was too late. Their hearts pounded with fear and concern, but their minds remained clear about the need for swift action. Every moment counted, and they were determined to do whatever it took to protect Lucy and her unborn child from harm. With determination, Lucy’s parents contacted the authorities to prevent any potential harm. They shared all the information they had gathered about Dan’s scheme, emphasizing the immediate threat to Lucy. Law enforcement responded promptly, understanding the gravity of the situation. Their prompt action was crucial in ensuring Lucy’s safety. Her parents pleaded for quick action, knowing that any delays could have disastrous consequences. The police began mobilizing resources to safeguard Lucy. Law enforcement intensified their efforts to apprehend Dan and protect Lucy. Police officers were dispatched to monitor Lucy’s route and the area around her workplace. Patrols were increased, and surveillance was established to ensure her safety. The coordinated effort aimed to thwart Dan’s plan and prevent any harm from coming to Lucy and her unborn child. Authorities worked seamlessly, determined to bring Dan to justice before he could execute his scheme. Dan was finally arrested after attempting to implement his fraudulent plan. He was caught in the act, unable to carry out the staged accident. The swift action of the police thwarted his attempt, and Dan was taken into custody. Lucy’s parents breathed a sigh of relief, knowing that the immediate threat had been neutralized. The arrest was a pivotal moment, marking the beginning of the end for Dan’s sinister plans. The full extent of Dan’s scheme came to light during his interrogation. Investigators uncovered detailed plans and evidence, connecting him to multiple fraudulent activities. The elaborate nature of his deception shocked everyone involved. Dan’s motives were driven purely by greed, with no regard for the harm he could have caused. The interrogation revealed his manipulative strategies and confirmed the depths to which he would go for financial gain. Justice was closing in. Though shaken by the ordeal, Lucy found immense relief knowing Dan was no longer a threat. Her sense of security gradually returned, and the constant fear began to fade. Supported by her parents and friends, she started to rebuild her life. The arrest was a significant turning point, allowing Lucy to focus on her well-being and the health of her unborn child. Peace of mind, once elusive, was slowly becoming a reality again. The community rallied around Lucy, offering their heartfelt support and comfort. Neighbors, co-workers, and even strangers extended their help, ensuring Lucy never felt alone. Organized drives and support groups sprang up, assisting her in practical ways and providing emotional sustenance. This collective goodwill eased the recovery process, allowing Lucy to focus on healing. The community’s unwavering support was a testament to the power of unity in the face of adversity. The ordeal left Lucy more cautious but incredibly grateful for her parents’ vigilance. Their quick actions had undoubtedly saved her life and that of her unborn child. The experience made her wary of blind trust but also appreciative of the protective love that surrounded her. Lucy’s bond with her parents strengthened, knowing their determination had thwarted a potentially tragic outcome. She moved forward with more caution, but also with a renewed sense of faith. The story serves as a strong reminder of the depths to which greed can drive an individual and the extraordinary strength of protective loved ones. It underscores the importance of vigilance and the power of community support in times of crisis. Lucy’s experience is a testament to resilience, love, and the unyielding will to protect those we cherish. Her journey, though fraught with danger, highlighted the best in people when facing life’s darkest moments.