Dear NEWHOPE, I pray for you. Please, be careful ! Whoever C is, a person who doesn't like animals and is harsh on them, may become an abuser.
If C is your boy friend, be extra careful. One may become much worse after catching you, and abusers are all around. We have a tendency to think that people change for better. They only do if they really wish to do so, or if the Lord changes them.
You have a responsibility. Your pets cannot defend themselves. They really love you unconditionally. They, God and your mother perhaps.
God bless you !