Shattered

•Seven•

Author's Note:  Trigger warning for marital rape.

NOW

"If we had more time, I'd invite you in," I apologized to Tom when he pulled into the brick driveway.

He parked the car and Sampson barked loudly, his tail thumping hard against the leather seats in the back. He stood with his front paws on the armrest between Tom and I, the hot breath from his panting making me chuckle. I scratched his ear and received a lick across my cheek as thanks.

"Nah, it's fine; I understand." Tom unbuckled and got out of the driver's seat, making his way to the passenger door.

I blushed as he offered his hand like a gentleman. I took it and carefully climbed out, saying goodbye to Sampson. The windows were cracked a few inches and he stuck his snout out after Tom closed the door, sniffing the air.

"You don't need to walk me to the door," I smiled to him, letting go of his hand. My leg felt a little better.

"If you're sure you're okay?" He looked down at my knee and I rubbed behind it.

"Yep. I think a long soak later tonight is in order, but I'm fine. Thank you for the ride."

"Anytime, Christine. It was lovely to see you. I know you don't have your phone on you right now so I can't give you my number, but if you ever need anything, at all, you can usually find me at Curly's." He shared a sad smile and we just stood there in the middle of the driveway, Sampson watching us.

"Who's Curly?"

Tom smiled wide before chuckling. "It's the gym I train at. On Main Street across from the lake."

I wasn't sure how to properly send him on his way. A handshake? A hug? A simple wave? Nothing felt like the right thing to do.

"Well, uh, take care." He gently placed a hand on my elbow and leaned in, grazing my cheek with his lips.

I've been here before. Somehow. It was like déjà vu, this parting. My heart felt heavy and I found myself becoming emotional. I bit the inside of my cheek and gave him a quick wave before opening the garage with the keypad. The door groaned to life and began to rise.

Tom returned to his car and gave another wave as he backed out and took off. As soon as he was out of sight, a soft sob I'd been holding in released and I stumbled back, catching myself quickly. I couldn't put my finger on it, but I could feel that I certainly did know Tom.

But just like the sneaking out and running secret, this too I would have to keep from Jack. At least for now until I could understand it better.

•••

Dinner had been quiet. We both had a lot on our minds. Work for Jack, and what I felt like was a memory resurfacing for me. I was anxious and wanted to ask Jack about Tom but remembering our anniversary party, it didn't seem like a good idea. It was bittersweet, not being able to share my progress with my husband, but indeed making progress. I should be excited, but instead I felt nothing but guilt and was left possibly more confused than before.

We enjoyed the chicken and rice I whipped up after a quick shower, and I found myself nursing my wine so much it felt like the glass never left my lips. I needed to be alone to process my thoughts. With Jack around, they felt a little cloudy. After Jack ate his last bite, he excused himself to make a work call and locked himself in his study across the hall from our bedroom.

Heading to our room, I pressed my ear to the door of his study and heard his voice. "I know, I understand, it's difficult, but I have to make it work. I need you to be understanding."