After celebrating Ruth’s return well into the dark hours of the night, Greta and Jimmy retired to her bedroom. The pale-yellow walls gave the room a soft glow, an invitation to peaceful serenity. The homemade quilt spread across the small bed provided loving warmth. It was paradise.
“Jimmy.” Greta cupped her hand around the face she adored so much. “Can you teach me to defend myself?”
“Why?” he questioned, his brow drawn together in consternation. “I can take care of you.”
She loved his confidence and knew he would protect her. But it was only a matter of time before she was alone, yet again. “I know, but perhaps one day you might not be with me.”
His jaw flexed and his body stiffened as he looked over her bruised face - a painful reminder that he would not always be by her side and th
