Totally forgot who made this dress. Lost some of my CC some time ago. When looking through screenshots I realized I don't have this dress anymore. It's totally gorgeous.
TW: Narcissistic abuse, stalking, sexual assault, harassment, animal abuse
Several years ago, I lived in a small apartment complex in a small town. I was known for helping my neighbors with rides, food, and anything else they needed. Over time, I realized many of them were taking advantage of me and talking about me behind my back.
A man ("Dean") moved into the complex and quickly became friends with everyone. I made it clear from the beginning that I was a Christian, wasn't interested in dating, and only wanted friendship. He frequently came to my apartment asking for food, cigarettes, and money. One day he asked me for sexual acts, I repeatedly said no, and he sexually assaulted me. At the time I didn't recognize it as sexual assault because my boundaries were poor. Years later, a therapist helped me understand what had happened.
After I cut contact, he began telling neighbors false stories about me, claiming I wanted him and that he had rejected me. He constantly texted me, played the victim, and refused to leave me alone. Eventually I blocked him.
Not long afterward, I realized someone was watching my apartment through my windows. Multiple neighbors later told me they had also caught him looking into their windows. One police officer even told me he already had a reputation in town for causing problems. Despite documenting everything and making multiple reports, I felt dismissed by law enforcement.
As time went on, the stalking escalated. He would spend time at apartments with direct views of mine, wait outside when I came home, and continue spreading rumors about me. Eventually I moved out of state to get away.
Before I left, I was hospitalized after a car accident. Because I couldn't secure my apartment, someone entered it while I was gone. My hard drive and Social Security card were stolen, and my cat was left with a stab wound to the neck. I reported everything, but nothing came of it.
After moving, someone used my information to attempt identity theft and repeatedly tried to access my online accounts. I also continued receiving calls from burner numbers for years, forcing me to change my number multiple times.
I eventually reported the sexual assault, but the investigation went nowhere and the case was dropped.
The experience changed me. I've learned to set firm boundaries and say no, but I also struggle with trusting people because so many ignored or dismissed what happened. I've never shared this story publicly before. Writing it out feels like an important step in finally letting it go.