Chapter 35

"Did you see her expression?" Abby asked as soon as they entered her room. The woman laughed out loud as she dragged her baggage to Ryleigh's bed and sat down on it.

"Abby, you shouldn't do that. Hannah will tell Luke about it."

Abby ceased laughing and regarded her. "Are you frightened?"

Rye brought the wooden chair to himself and sat down. "It's not quite that—"

"What then? I was aware of it. That Luke is physically and emotionally harmful to you. Take a look at your cheek."

Rye expelled a heavy sigh. With their separation, Abby observed it once more.

"I'm to blame."

Abby was aware that her laughter was mocking. "In their perspective, it's always your fault because you let them—I don't know Rye, I've told you I won't keep asking you about it. Because no matter how much I try to persuade you to leave him, you won't listen to me, correct?"

"Time flies so fast and I love him as much as I want to obey my fa—"

"Stupid love! Pathetic. You love him so deeply, huh? That you allow him to dam