Through the Dark

Chapter 9

Chapter 9

"Mrs. Williams," I said, my voice trembling despite my best attempt to stay composed. I could feel my heart racing, knowing that as soon as she dredged up the past, I might completely lose it.

Her piercing gaze alone made me want to run home and hide from the world.

"I didn't realize you were living in London," she said coldly, then pivoted toward Harry. "Do you pay her well? More than my husband offered? Does she still have those... talents that can captivate any man instantly? Is she still good at—"

"Mrs. Williams, please," I interrupted, pleading with her not to make a scene.

"What? Isn't that your specialty?!" she snapped, venom dripping from her words as she pointed at Harry, who looked utterly bewildered. She turned back to him. "You young man... do you even know who you're dealing with? I'll bet she didn't tell you why she left California. She's not the angel you think she is—she's only after a night of steamy sex and your money. That's how she's always lived!"

Then her gaze locked onto me again. "Men only want your body, not your heart. They will never truly love a woman like you. You don't deserve love. You don't deserve happiness. You deserve to suffer... forever, you home-wrecker!"

Her words echoed through the restaurant, and I could feel every eye on us. My chest tightened, my hands trembled—I couldn't take it anymore. Harry flinched beside me, his jaw tightening, but even his presence couldn't calm the storm building inside me. My vision blurred as the tears threatened to spill.

This is too much.

I spun on my heels and bolted out of the restaurant, the cool evening air hitting my tear-streaked face. My tears poured freely now, unrelenting, as I tried to escape the weight of every judgmental stare. I could hear Harry calling my name, his voice laced with worry, but I didn't care—I just needed to get away.

Everything had felt perfect tonight. The dinner, the laughter, Harry... he was perfect. I had almost forgotten Aunt Martha's call earlier, almost felt like I could leave the past behind. But then Mrs. Williams appeared, and in an instant, everything shattered. She had poisoned the night, turned joy into shame, and left me feeling small, dirty, and exposed. My heart ached, and I couldn't stop running.

May be she's right. I don't deserve to be love at all. I deserve to suffer. I thought to myself.

*****

I ran until I finally reached a small, quiet park. I collapsed onto an empty bench, my body shaking as I let the tears flow freely. For a moment, I just wanted to forget everything—the shame, the embarrassment, the hurt.

Then my phone vibrated inside my purse. I fumbled to grab it, and my heart sank. 18 missed calls and 6 text messages—all from Harry.

09:05pm
Sammy, where are you? Why did you run away? How did you run that fast? Please call me when you get this. –H

09:18pm
I'm sorry I didn't defend you from that woman. I was really stunned. I don't know what she's talking about but I got some hint. Please call me back. –H

09:30pm
Where are you? I've been driving around the block near the restaurant. I can't find you. Please tell me you're ok. –H

10:24pm
I'm in front of your house. The lights are still off. Please just tell me where you are. I'm really worried. –H

10:43pm
Sammy please, tell me where you are and I'll come and get you. I am really sorry for what happened. Please, Sammy just one call or text saying that you're ok. It will set me at ease. –H