Day 7 of the countdown turns to one of the hardest truths I’ve ever had to face.

Not everyone who appears kind is kind. Some abusers are masterful performers; they display compassion in public and practise cruelty in private.

During that time, people saw only what they wanted to see: a respectable partner, community‑minded, articulate, impressive.

I was told—often—how “lucky” I was.

I nodded, smiled, and felt a little piece of me fade each time.

Behind closed doors, words became weapons.

Silence became punishment.

I began doubting my own perceptions because the world only recognised their charm.

It’s profoundly disorienting when your abuser is socially admired.

You start questioning yourself simply because everyone else seems so certain they’re wonderful.

Eventually, I learned a truth that changed everything: credibility is not the same as character.

Charm is a form of currency for control; it buys them allies long before you realise you’ll need witnesses.

Charm is the perfect disguise.