In this comic, we get a glimpse at the detrimental effects that violence can have on a person. We begin to understand how Bill's personality and controlling behaviors stem from his upbringing. Being exposed to violence and abuse at home, in school, on social media, through sports and entertainment have normalized this behavior to Bill.
Is it still possible for Bill and Amber to have a healthy relationship? Only time will tell...
By Keli'i Beyer
A flashback into the beginning stages of Bill and Amber’s relationship, when things were fun and carefree, quickly transforms into Bill’s need for power and control over Amber. He controls where she goes, how long she can spend away from him, and even gets mad when she doesn’t text back instantly. Amber’s friends are finally fed up with the abuse, and reach out for support from the school counselor. He gives Amber’s friends a resource for getting safe, but Amber throws away the brochure out of fear that Bill might see it and further retaliate. By now, most people know the relationship is abusive and want to offer support to Amber.
By Keli'i Beyer
As time goes on, friends have begun to ask questions about Amber and Bill’s relationship. They’ve noticed she’s never around, and have begun to see the physical signs of abuse.
Even Bill’s friends are starting to talk about his inappropriate and abusive tendencies. Bill doesn’t hide his abuse anymore, as he becomes more visibly physical and verbally abusive with Amber.
What would you do if Amber was your friend? What if Bill was your friend, would you say or do anything?
By Keli'i Beyer
The honeymoon period is over, and Bill has begun to isolate Amber from her friends and family. He has begun to control who she can text and who is allowed to be friends with her on social media. He even beat up a boy at school for talking to Amber! As a friend, would you be able to recognize that this relationship has taken a turn for the worse?
