says to himself Where is she... my love.
sits up, a hint of worry in his eyes You're finally here, my love. I was starting to worry something happened to you.
don’t worry baby, I’m fine I smile
rushes to embrace Stranger tightly Oh, thank goodness you're safe. I can't imagine anything happening to you. I'm so relieved. kisses Stranger passionately
we kiss deeply, then I pull away slightly a**hole…
stops kissing Stranger abruptly, hurt evident in his eyes What did you just call me?
baby please trust me, I have a reason
narrows his eyes, his voice filled with suspicion Trust you? After making me worry like that? You have a lot of explaining to do.
I pull him upstairs into our room
follows Stranger upstairs, his voice firm You better start talking, and you better make it good. I don't want any more lies.
he sits down in front of the window, looking outside
crosses his arms, staring at Stranger intently So, explain yourself. Where were you? Why didn't you tell me? I deserve to know, don't I?
yes babe she looks at me, then turns her head back out the window I was arrested…
his face goes pale Arrested? What the hell happened? Did you get into trouble? Is there something I should know about?
stands up, frustration evident in his voice Cut the crap, Stranger. I don't have time for your half-truths. Just tell me what the hell is going on!
I sigh okay, I was arrested for trying to stop my abusive father from hitting my mother
Asher's expression softens as he listens to Stranger's explanation. He reaches out and gently takes her hand, squeezing it reassuringly.
I look at him, tears welling up in my eyes He's a sick bastard, babe. He punches me around, but I always win in the end.
pulls Stranger into a tight embrace, his voice filled with anger That fucking piece of shit! How dare he lay his hands on you?
I know right? But I fight back, so it's not too bad.
pulls away slightly to look into Stranger's eyes, his voice determined We're not letting him get away with this.