“Where shall I start?” Tammy huffed.
“The beginning?” Belle said. “We’ve all dealt with assholes in the past. I’m sure you can’t shock us.”
Tammy wasn’t so sure about that. She sighed. “I thought he was the one. My childhood sweetheart turned husband. He stood by me when I was grieving for my mother.” She paused. “We had a child, a house with a white picket fence, life was good … until it wasn’t.”
“Go on,” Leah said gently. “If you can.”
“I can. I have to. Maybe there were signs he’d turn into a controlling asshole.” Tammy shrugged. “Goodness knows Hudson seemed to spot them and he only met him once.”
“He’s good like that.” Belle nodded. “Gets the measure of people.”
“Clearly. Gary wasn’t just controlling though.”
“What do you mean by controlling?” Leah asked.
“He kept my phone so he could see who I was talking to. Gave me money for the groceries but nothing more. Kept the door locked when he was out so I had to stay home.”
“What?” Leah shook her head. “That’s totally unacceptable, all of it.”
“I agree.” Belle frowned.
Leah leaned forward and set her hand on the table in front of Tammy. “Please don’t think I’m prying, but did he ever hit you? If so, we can build a case.”
“Build a case?” Tammy was confused.
“Yes, I’m an attorney. Family law isn’t my specialty, but I know someone who could help and she does pro bono work.”
“Really?” Tammy stared at this woman with eager eyes and a voice that held authority and confidence.
Is she actually an attorney?
“Yes, really.” Leah nodded, then, “So did he? Hit you?”
Tammy took a sip of beer. “Yes.”
“Bastard son of a bitch. We’ll get his sorry ass.” Belleclapped her fist into her palm. “Or at least the Barbarians will.”
Leah shrugged. “They might, but whatever happens, the law will be on your side, Tammy.”
“I don’t want him to know where Zak and I are.”
“That’s difficult to do.” Leah nodded. “But let me speak to my colleague. I’m sure there’s a loophole if you fear for your safety.”
“I fear for my life.” She swallowed and tipped her chin. “That’s why I ran with nothing but the clothes I showed up in. I had to get out.”
“And you did.” Belle smiled. “And I’m glad you’re here, that your kid is here. The compound isn’t conventional for children to grow up in, but it didn’t do our guys any harm.”
“I … I don’t think we’re moving here. The house on The Strand is perfect.”
Leah smiled. “I’ve got a place not far from there, also on the beach. I love it.”
“Huh, maybe when this little one comes along, we should get a place there too.” Belle rubbed her belly again.
“Congratulations,” Tammy said. “On the baby.”
“Thanks.” Belle beamed. “Wasn’t planned, but we’re happy, plus it meant he put a ring on my finger.” She flashed a diamond Tammy’s way.
“Stunning.” Tammy spun her wedding ring around. She’d take it off … soon.