The woman at the shelter left for Pakistan today. I think I was of some help, in retrospect. I insisted that she call the shelter and go there, getting away from the house – I don’t think she was ready to until then. I was a familiar voice speaking her language and in the same city. I gave her some money which helped buy the ticket home. I didn’t force her to do anything.
What I didn’t do: I didn’t buy her a silk dupatta. I didn’t take her into my home. I didn’t buy her ticket. I could have done all of these. But I think it’s fine.
She’s now flying home to her family so my part in the story is done. She goes on to an extended divorce and custody battle.