A Different Kind of Heist

He knew what he was doing from the start. Played all the right notes to reach her heart. This heist would take time – but time he had. He had planned it all perfectly to steal what he wanted without anyone really being aware.

He started by using his smiles and charms. Made all the right promises. Then came his disarming temper and quiet dismissiveness. He worked with all the diligence and patience of a code cracker. Cracking her spirit, confidence, and, will. No one could question his tenacity and commitment to his heist.

Separating her from those who loved her, like robbers separate hostages. There was no way she could be the hero in her own story. Not while his gun was held to her, primed to fire her if she tried to do anything brave.

Stockholm Syndrome made sure that even when her family and friends noticed there were issues, she would defend him. They were as powerless as the police, negotiator, and crowd of people that gather outside a bank while a hostage situation is in progress. They could do nothing but watch and try to quietly comfort, encourage and empower her. To survive.