They called me a bang nanny. I haven’t left—but I’m not the same.

I saw the comments.
I heard what y’all were really saying.
And for the first time… I didn’t defend him.

Because deep down, I know what it’s been.
Me showing up for everyone.
Me taking on roles I was never truly supported in.
Me getting crumbs and calling it commitment.

I haven’t left.
But something in me is shifting.

I’m quieter now. I’m colder.
I move differently. I give less.
And maybe he hasn’t noticed it yet, but the version of me that once begged for connection?
She’s not here anymore.

I’m still in the same house.
But I’m not in the same mindset.

And when the day comes that I finally choose myself fully—
it won’t be loud.
It’ll be the softest goodbye he never heard coming.

— Teyah Brooks