PFM,
Thank you for letting us know you made it to your aunt's home; a place of safety for you and your children.

What did you do? Did what needed to be done to protect you and your children.
It doesn't feel that way right now, I'm sure. You are physically and mentally exhausted, stressed beyond words, and afraid of making a new start...
Please don't doubt yourself, PFM. Try and hang on to the valid reasons it was necessary for you to take this action.

Action, taking actions, are powerful words. In doing this, you knew in your heart that you are a worthwhile human being deserving to be treated with respect and courtesy.
A first step, a very big one at that...but you were drowning in his abuse and this had to be done.

Perhaps grief is a part of what you are going through...what was lost and what could have been...but you know he was not going to change.

Ruining your life and the lives of your children would have been staying with him...not leaving that abusive situation.
Hurt him? In some ways, yes of course. More likely it was a surprise to him that you had the courage to take this step.
His feelings are his--his and you are not responsible for them.

There's going to be so many feelings for you to work through...seek whatever help will be available to you and the children.
Accept the love of those who surround and support you.
Time; that four letter word. It's going to move slowly at first...giving you time to get focused and reassured of your strength, which you have even if you don't feel it right now.

Please keep posting and let us know how you are doing...may people here care about you.
Standing with you, in my thoughts.

In Peace

Catherine