This episode and especially the ending was very raw. The meeting at the diner was fascinatingly real. Hazel goading Byron about the true extent he has become a "changed man" as he says. Prodding at his control issues, seeing the bubbling anxiety underneath his façade of cool calm & collected. Hazel could see him for what he is & could express her views in a setting he could not control. It was nice to see her confidence come out when she held in her palm the possibility of authentic freedom. For an abuse victim this felt like running the last stretch of the marathon before crossing the finish line banner.
Of course the ending brought some tears. It is completely believable that she agreed to return to the Hub to save her father. She was given an impossible choice. Abuse victims are often reeled back in one way or another. That's why it's such a gruelling climb to escape the claws of a sociopath or narcissist. You're dragged back by the heels many times before you can break free. Of course some never do. Or they die trying.
Of course the ending brought some tears. It is completely believable that she agreed to return to the Hub to save her father. She was given an impossible choice. Abuse victims are often reeled back in one way or another. That's why it's such a gruelling climb to escape the claws of a sociopath or narcissist. You're dragged back by the heels many times before you can break free. Of course some never do. Or they die trying.
