My husband swore he’d stand by me forever, but when his mistake left me broken, he decided I was too much to carry. What he didn’t know was that karma was already on its way to his door.I never imagined I’d be telling this story — not like this and not with everything I’ve lost. I’m Jane, 34, and until a few months ago, I thought I had my life figured out. I wasn’t rich or famous, but I was strong and independent. I didn’t ask for help because I didn’t need it.I worked full-time as a veterinary nurse at a clinic just outside of Portland. My days were long and messy, but I loved every second. After work, I’d stop for groceries, take the long way home with the windows down, blast my favorite music, and pretend I was the only one on the road.

My husband Matt was the charming guy with an easy smile and just enough mystery to keep people intrigued. He ran his own IT business from home and had a way of making you feel like the center of the universe. At least in the beginning.We met at a friend’s barbecue five years ago. He made me laugh so hard I spilled my drink down my shirt. He offered his hoodie, and before the night was over, he asked if I wanted to get tacos. That was Matt — spontaneous, bold, and full of charm.But here’s the thing: charm only takes you so far when life gets hard.The night everything changed wasn’t some dramatic setup. We were just leaving a late dinner with his old college buddies. It was raining lightly, not enough to soak you but enough to make the roads slick. I offered to drive, but he waved me off with a grin.