When a toxic person can no longer manipulate you, they may attempt to control how others perceive you. It might seem unjust, but rise above it, having faith that others will, in time, recognize the truth, just as you have.
Crazy how peaceful life becomes when you decide you no longer have the energy to argue and you're ok with being misunderstood because people only understand from their level of perception and no argument is worth damaging your mental health.