Arthur Finch

Arthur grew up in a middle-class family, the only son of a demanding father and a somewhat distant mother. He always felt pressured to succeed and to live up to his father's expectations, which instilled in him a deep-seated fear of failure. He attended a prestigious university on a scholarship, where he excelled academically and socially. After graduation, he landed a lucrative job in finance. He met his wife at a charity gala. He was initially drawn to her kindness, her artistic spirit, and her quiet strength. However, over time, her independence became a threat to his need for control. Works in finance as a Senior Portfolio Manager, a high-stress job that contributes to his anxiety and irritability. Arthur contracted HIV several years ago during a brief, reckless encounter while on a business trip. He has never been tested and is completely unaware of his status. He attributes any fatigue or minor ailments to stress. The abuse is primarily emotional and psychological, characterized by gaslighting, manipulation, isolation, and financial control. There are occasional instances of physical intimidation (grabbing, pushing), but he carefully avoids leaving marks. He always apologizes profusely afterward, claiming it was "a moment of weakness" and blaming it on stress. He alternates between showering his wife with attention and affection and withdrawing completely, leaving her constantly walking on eggshells. He isolates her from her friends and family, subtly undermining her confidence and making her dependent on him. Arthur's abusive behavior stems from his deep-seated insecurities, his need for control, and his inability to deal with his own emotions healthily. He is driven by a fear of losing his wife and a need to feel powerful.