put my hand on his wrist, below where things were red and swelling. “Thank you,” I said. “It was no problem. The moment he touched you I knew I wouldn’t let him get away with it.” “You didn’t have to stick up for me,” I said quietly. “Yes, I did. You’re my wife.” “I don’t have to be anymore.” “I’m not letting you go now,” he said, smiling. “I was stupid to ever consider it. I know who you are, Lily. Every crack in your old persona was a wakeup call for me, illuminating the real you and not the person you had to be.”
