Me and the council president have been arguing the whole day about the upcoming event. We can’t seem to agree on any ideas, and it feels like she’s ignoring all my efforts. I’ve put a lot of work into this plan, and she just keeps dismissing my input.

“I understand that you have your own ideas.” I say, trying to stay calm. “but this event is important to me, and I've put a lot of work into this plan. When you dismiss my input like that, it feels like all my efforts are being ignored.”

I try to stay understanding, but when she raises her hand as if to slap me, I flinch and instinctively raise my arms to shield my face. She stops midway, clearly aware of my past struggles and how her actions might affect me.