Heavens above! It sounds like an automotive soap opera.
I know that I'm stating the obvious here but the incident itself tends to be a relatively minor part of the whole event.
It's subsequently being at the mercy of others who are pulling the strings, often in different directions, that causes the real stress and hassle.
I've never had the misfortune of having to stop on a motorway hard shoulder but the thought of it scares me given the potential dangers.
From your photo it seems that you retreated to higher ground. Very wise!
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