But my secret weapon was my mom. Years earlier, she had helped us buy the house and included a little-known clause giving her the right to live there anytime she wished. When I called her, she moved in immediately, taking control of the house from Mike’s smug grip. His shock and fury were priceless when he realized the “victory” he’d celebrated was already slipping away.

The day my mom started bossing Mike around telling him off over his snacks, turning down the TV, and making herself at home was the sweetest moment of my new freedom. Mike thought he had it all, but the real win was mine.