“So is that a yes,' the sheriff asked.
Daniel held his breath. The lawsuit, the cost of bail, these were enough to push Clyde into the zone. The world stopped on Rita's next breath. A single assertion could end this mess--protective custody; the sheriff would shield Daniel from Clyde's wrath.
'No,' Rita said in a steady strong voice. 'My husband does not abuse us.'
The lie kicked Daniel as hard as Clyde's boot.”