The Cherished Wife

Annie's hand instinctively went to her cheek, her gaze clouding over. She bit her lip and whispered, "Winter says she regrets it. She never meant for things to go this far."

"Guilty? Yeah, right!" Suzy sobbed, angrily wiping her tears. "Guilty? She didn't even blink when you were taken away. She didn't care whether you lived or died. How could she possibly feel guilty, especially after she looked down on you for your scars? If you hadn't gone to her, she wouldn't have..." Words tumbled out of Suzy in a rush of fury. Once said, they could not be taken back.

Seeing Annie's face turn ashen, Suzy quickly took her hand. "I'm so sorry, Annie. I didn't mean to. I just..."

"It's okay," Annie said, pulling Suzy into a hug. "Don't worry about it now. Just try to get some sleep. I'm here for you."

"Annie, I just can't let it go. I really can't. She's been at odds with Noelle for years. What's that got to do with us? Why do we have to get involved?"

injury, but Suzy had continued to be friendly with her. Annie had thought Suzy would resent Noelle after what happened, but it turned out Winter was the

hate her? After what she did to

away. "My face will heal. What matters now

sue them all," Suzy declared, her emotions surging once more.

of sorrow hit her. She gripped Suzy's hand more firmly.

can't tell anyone. If I do, it'll be all over the place. Annie, what am I going to do? So many people from our group were there tonight, and they all saw what happened. How can

take a deep breath. It's going to be okay." Annie wrapped her arms around Suzy, gently patting her back to soothe her. "Xavier has already handled it. Those people won't say a word, and no one else will find out about tonight. If

I can't let it get out. I just can't!" Suzy clutched Annie's arm, shaking her head desperately. "Annie,