He wanted to know what happened, but he knew he’d have to let her take her time. He hated himself for letting this happen to her.

Her shoulders sagged as she let out a big sigh and said, “I’m real messed up, aren’t I?â€?

“You look beautiful,â€? he replied. It wasn’t a lie, because even with all those bruises, she was the most beautiful creature he’d ever seen.

“You’re too sweet,â€? she purred as she moved closer, fitting herself into the nook of his arm.

“You must be freezing,â€? he said as he embraced her against his body.

“I think I’m too numb to be cold.â€?

How she could be numb was beyond him. Just looking at her raw tender lips made him cringe. “Did your dad do this?â€? he blurted, unable to hold it back any longer.

“Yeah,â€? she sighed.

He waited for her to continue, his nerves on edge, his fists clenching. At least 15 minutes past. Snow slowly started to fall.