Why does the person who hurts me most also feel like the only safe place?

I sat on the edge of the bed, staring at the new rose-gold collar in the mirror. It gleamed against my skin elegant, permanent, and terrifying. Daddy stood behind me, his hands resting on my shoulders as he watched my reflection.

“You’re overthinking again,” he said softly, his thumbs gently massaging the tension from my muscles. “Tell me what’s in your head, babygirl.”

I swallowed hard.

“Trauma bonding,” I whispered. “I read about it. The way the brain gets wired to the person who causes both pain and relief. The fear makes the affection feel...