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?"

Winter's facade after her own injury, but Suzy had continued to be friendly with her. Annie had thought Suzy would resent Noelle after

After what she

cut her off, turning away. "My face will heal. What matters now is you and what you're

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

and a pang of sorrow hit her.

our group were there tonight, and they all saw what happened. How can

has already handled it. Those people won't say a word, and no one else will find out about

get out. I just can't!" Suzy clutched Annie's arm,