Full Circle: One Woman's Story of Survival and Empowerment

By Susan Monaco

Abby Montero wanted it all. But first, she must overcome rapes haunting memories and emotional impact. Enter Raymond Matthews.

He pledges friendship, then love. Together, they embark on a fairy-tale life. Abby soon discovers Raymonds dark side and retreats to the safety of Ben Weldon. But Ben carries demons that could destroy them both.
Abby escapes. The danger escalates with Raymonds determination to destroy her. She fights back and learns about love, friendship and fate.
Full Circle is Abbys struggle for survival and search for everlasting love. Its an emotional roller coaster from which there appears to be no escape.

• Language: English
• Publisher: Xlibris US
• Release date: Jan 22, 2004
• ISBN: 9781465326881

Susan Monaco

Susan Monaco loves to write. Penning poetry since she was eight, Ms. Monaco’s ultimate dream is to write and to talk to people about how her life experiences can help them overcome the personal struggles they are facing. Full Circle is the culmination of a twelve-year labor of love. Ms. Monaco is an actor and businesswoman, who is also pursuing a literary career of publishing magazine articles and writing additional novels. Her main passion is raising her son in suburban Washington, DC. She enjoys helping people, rock-climbing, hiking, staying physically fit, discovering new restaurants and relaxing in the Caribbean.

Book preview

CHAPTER 1

The plane bounced and shook violently as it passed through the gray and black thunderclouds on its descent into San Francisco. Abby Montero gazed anxiously out the window at the skyline she’d so often seen in pictures. Her eyes remained riveted, even though the city was somewhat obscured by the harsh rain and fog. When the wheels finally touched the runway, the g-force as the plane braked thrust her against the seat. Abby exhaled deeply. The rough ride was finally over.

Once the seat belt light was extinguished, she stood and grabbed her carry-on bag from the overhead compartment. After patiently waiting for those in front of her to move forward, she followed the other passengers down the jetway, into the gate area and down to the security checkpoint. She scanned the crowd and quickly spotted her friends, Gary and Rich. They were standing just to the right of the doorway through which she’d just emerged. She smiled and rushed toward them, and hugged each with one arm. They worked for the same consulting firm, though on opposite sides of the country, and had met about a year ago, at the three-week training course required for all new employees. Of the seventy-five people from all over the world who’d attended that class, they’d become fast friends and had remained in close contact, even though Abby lived in Atlanta.

It’s awesome to see you, Abs. How was your flight? Gary asked as he picked up her bag.

Pretty rough. We flew through a bad storm and the landing was a bit scary. But other than that, it just seemed long. I hate sitting for more than about twenty minutes at a time, she told him as she flashed them both a smile. I‘m so glad you came to get me. What‘s the plan?

Rich smiled at Abby‘s eagerness. We thought we‘d drop you at your hotel to unpack, get settled and relax for a bit. Then we‘ll come back and pick you up and go get a nice dinner somewhere.

Sounds great.

The ride into San Francisco was light and airy as Gary and Rich took turns pointing out landmarks Abby had read about but had never seen. Traffic was minimal and they reached her hotel quickly. After she checked into her room, she unpacked then took a long hot shower. She felt drained from the long turbulent flight and the water pelting her skin seemed to reenergize her. once she‘d dried off and donned the hotel‘s fluffy forest green robe, she ran a comb through her wet blonde hair. She couldn‘t believe she was actually in San Francisco for six whole weeks. It would be a great opportunity to spend time with her friends, sightsee, and perhaps even see her brother Glenn, who lived in Sacramento.

She glanced at the red numbers on the clock radio next to her bed and realized she‘d better hustle. Rich and Gary would be there any minute. After blow-drying her hair, she touched up her mascara, applied some lipstick to her full lips and slipped into a black pair of slacks and a red cotton sweater.

Just then, she heard a knock on the door. When she opened it, Abby was surprised to see three people rather than the two she‘d been expecting. Her gaze immediately went to the person she didn‘t recognize.

Hello, she said warmly.

Gary quickly introduced Rob Davidson as their roommate.

He held out his hand to shake hers and she discretely wiped her hand on her pant leg before allowing him to take it.

Hi, Abby.

It‘s very nice to meet you, she replied politely, smiling nervously as she stared into his blue eyes.

Likewise. He returned her smile, which Abby thought seemed genuine.

Abby wasn‘t sure of Rob‘s age, which was probably close to hers, but he seemed mature beyond his years. Standing just over six feet tall, his eyes reminded her of the sky on a clear Fall day. His straight white teeth indicated many visits to the orthodontist and his physique was lean, but muscular. But more than his outward attractiveness, Abby perceived something more in him, something she wanted to learn more about.

The foursome left the hotel and chatted merrily on the way to the restaurant. Rob also worked for their company, so they had a lot to talk about. Still, the easy conversation surprised Abby, who wasn‘t usually comfortable around people she‘d just met. But with Rob, she felt a sense of comfort and security that was foreign to her.

Throughout dinner, her eyes were transfixed on Rob. At first it was subtle, discrete glances, gazing at him out of the corner of her eye as she listened to Gary tell another one of his crazy stories. But as the evening progressed, she knew she was being obvious and he didn‘t seem to mind. She even caught him looking her way and caught herself unconsciously leaning closer to him as he talked, absorbing his every word like a sponge.

Would anyone like dessert? the waiter asked, diverting her attention from Rob.

Gary and Rich declined. We have an early meeting, so we need to get going, Rich explained as he and Gary stood and put enough money on the table for all of them. Abby and Rob stood to go. Oh, no. You two stay and have dessert. They make a killer key lime pie, Abs. I know you can‘t pass that up.

Abby smiled appreciatively. She knew what they were doing.

Rich continued, I‘m sure Rob won‘t mind helping you eat some pie, then seeing you back to the hotel, will you Rob? He glanced over at Rob and winked.

I’d be delighted.

Gary and Rich smiled, hugged Abby then left her alone with their friend. She was in good hands.

Once they were gone, Abby and Rob ordered the pie and decaf lattes. They continued to talk, as if they’d known each other forever. Rob told her that like his roommates, he’d also graduated from Stanford, but a year later. He told her about his family, his goals and his detailed plan to get there.

He certainly seems determined, Abby thought, admiring his ambition. It was similar to hers.

The clock struck midnight and the manager informed them the restaurant was closing. They looked around and realized they were the only patrons left. Rob stood and took her hand to help her from her seat. She felt a slight chill and wondered if it was from the air conditioning or his touch. Still holding her hand, he led her outside and hailed a cab. Within seconds, they were en route to her hotel. When they arrived at the front door, Abby realized she didn’t want to say goodbye. To her surprise, Rob got out of the cab with her.

I promised the guys I’d see you safely to your room, he told her.

Abby thought he seemed nervous, but then, so was she. They were both quiet as they walked, but it was a comfortable silence. When they reached her door, she opened it and turned toward him. I had a great time tonight.

Likewise, Rob replied as he leaned down and kissed lightly on her cheek. Can I see you again sometime . . . . soon?

I’d like that.

He smiled and turned to walk the long corridor to the elevator. Before he reached it, he looked back and waved to her, surprised but happy to see she was still standing outside her door. She smiled and waved back, waiting until she heard the ping of the elevator before going into her room. After she locked the door, she leaned against it, closed her eyes and smiled. She’d only known this man for a few hours, yet it felt like a lifetime.

After that night, Abby and Rob became inseparable. Evenings and weekends were spent exploring different restaurants and taking in the local sights. Rob seemed to enjoy playing tour guide and Abby loved being the tourist. They visited Napa and Sonoma, where they discovered some phenomenal wines, some of which were only available for purchase at the winery. They played tourist at Alcatraz and Seal Point, picnicked in Golden Gate Park, walked around Fisherman’s Wharf and Pier 39, ate chocolate at Ghiradelli Square and drank Irish coffees at the Buena Vista. Abby felt her wall starting to come down and dared to hope that she’d finally met a man she could love and trust.

It helped that whenever they were together, Rob was a perfect gentleman. He’d always walk Abby to her room, kiss her goodnight and head home, a trip she knew to be at least forty-five minutes.

Why don’t you stay here instead of making that long drive home? she asked late one night as he prepared to leave. You’re coming back in the morning anyway.

I know, but I can’t.

His reply surprised her. After years of shutting men out of her heart and life, Abby finally felt ready to open the door and let someone pass through . . . . but he didn’t want to enter. Why?

Rob took her hands into his and gazed at her intently. You might find this hard to believe . . . . but, I’m saving myself . . . . for marriage.

You’re kidding, right.

I’ve never been so serious about anything in my life.

Abby closed her eyes and wrapped her arms around him, pressing her head against the warmth of his chest. She’d never met anyone quite like him. This was the exactly the kind of man she had dreamed about meeting. I just meant you could sleep here, save yourself that long drive home.

Maybe one day . . . . He gently kissed her goodbye and left.

As Abby shut the door and bolted it, she wondered if this was what it felt like to be in love.

Time passed too quickly and Abby and Rob refused to talk about her upcoming departure, which was now less than a week away. If they could stop time, they would, but that was a feat not even God could accomplish. In just over five weeks, they’d become emotionally close and had developed the type of friendship and trust that usually takes months, if not years, to form. Abby felt safe with Rob. It was a feeling she hadn’t experienced since before that incident in college and one she thought she’d never find again.

on the day of her departure, they were both silent as they got into Rob’s car. Abby took his hand into hers and stared straight ahead. She almost didn’t notice that instead of getting on Route 101 South for the airport, Rob headed toward the Wharf.

Where you going? She’d been in the city long enough now to know he was going the wrong way.

He smiled mischievously. You’ll see.

Abby looked at him curiously but didn’t comment. Several minutes later, when he pulled up in front of the Buena Vista, she bit her bottom lip, which was starting to quiver. You’re so romantic.

I know.

They got out of his car and he put his arm around her waist. once inside, he led her to their usual table next to the window, the one where they’d watch all the people walk by. But today was different. He didn’t want to look at anyone but her and he wanted to have one last Irish coffee before she left. Nothing else mattered except that they were sitting at same table where they’d ended so many evenings together. He wanted her to always remember this as their special place. When the waiter delivered their order, they picked up their glass mugs at the same time.

To us. He tapped his glass against hers.

To us, she repeated.

CHAPTER 2

Abby Montero’s conservative upbringing in a small Midwestern community didn’t prepare her for the wonders of the Washington, DC metropolitan area. When her father relocated the family during Abby’s junior year of high school, she’d felt like a country girl gone to the city. Everything was overwhelming, from the Metro subway system to the volume of traffic. But her parents, Rossario by birth, or Ross as he preferred, and Marie, helped Abby make the transition. One of the biggest challenges was driving the eight lanes on the Capital Beltway, and the nightmare of the Springfield Interchange, not so fondly known as Spaghetti Junction. It was a far cry from the two-lane roads on which she’d learned to drive. The second major challenge was with the people, who were so accustomed to the transience of the inhabitants that there wasn’t much effort made to make newcomers feel welcome, much less special. But Abby faced those challenges bravely and refused to let anything as simple as traffic or unfriendly people intimidate her.

The third quarter of junior year in high school was a tough time for any family to move. But in Abby’s case, because she was involved in a number of activities, it was particularly difficult. Back in Illinois, where they’d lived since she was eight, she’d been Student Council Treasurer, Editor of the yearbook and Prom queen candidate. At her new school, with a student population of more than twenty-six hundred, her arrival was barely noticed. She was suddenly a nobody, who didn’t know anyone. It was a traumatic transition for a teenaged girl, but Abby was a strong . . . . and resourceful. She wasn’t about to just sit around and feel sorry for herself. Something had to be done, or her senior year would be unbearable. So what she decided to do was very brave, or as some would say . . . . crazy. A mere three weeks after her arrival, she ran for student council Vice President, placing second in a field of seven. The winner was the football team’s star running back, who everyone knew and idolized. But by the time the election was over, everyone knew exactly who Abby Montero was. Running an aggressive candidacy had been a wise decision. She’d made friends fast and actually started to enjoy her new environment.

The youngest by far of three children born into a middle-class family, Abby had been reared to be independent and to make her own decisions. She’d learned to be strong enough to deal with anything on her own and not ask for help. All problems, she’d been taught, were self-solvable.

Ross Montero was a full-blooded Italian with olive skin, dark brown eyes and black hair that had long ago begun to gray. A large man by most standards, six-foot three, two twenty-five, he was intimidating, yet gracious. He had a twinkle in his eye when he smiled, like someone who’d just won the lottery. But beneath Ross’s powerful presence was a heart of gold, a man who’d do anything for those about whom he cared. His youngest daughter was his pride and joy, and he held an extra-special place in his heart for her. When Abby was born, not only was he in the delivery room, which was highly unusual at that time, but he’d quit his two-pack-a-day smoking habit, cold turkey. He’d said he wanted to be around to see his baby girl graduate from college. That decision had created a special bond between them, which continues to this day. A wise man, Ross tried to teach Abby everything he knew. She was smart and willingly absorbed his words of wisdom as if precious oxygen itself. Her respect and love for her father were immense, and she dreamed that someday she’d meet a man who was as honest, strong, loving and genuine as he was. When Abby walked down the lawn of the university of Virginia to accept her diploma and finance degree, she’d searched the vast crowd for her father and found him. He smiled, proudly she thought, and she remembered the story of giving up his cigarettes for her. And now here they both were, just as he’d planned. Ross had done his job well. Abby was now ready to leave the safety of his nest.

Abby’s mother Marie was of German descent and quite the opposite of her confident husband. Though strikingly beautiful, she’d always been a bit insecure. Having grown up in poverty, she’d never become totally comfortable with the lifestyle Ross had provided. She still shopped for bargains and refused to buy anything at full price. It was a game she loved and played well. But more than anything, Marie was a lady, in every sense of the word. She’d been a doting wife and mother, and her great capacity to love was a trait she’d passed along to her youngest daughter. That, and her striking green eyes.

Abby’s eyes were as green as the grass after a Spring rain, and as bright as the sun. The window to her soul, they were an extraordinary offset to the olive skin she’d inherited from her father. Like her mother, Abby was a lady, but like her father, an athlete. She’d excelled in every sport she’d ever pursued, but her first love was swimming. The olympics had been a dream, which to her regret, had never become a reality.

The Montero family was rounded out with two other children: Glenn with whom Abby was very close, and Connie, with whom she wasn’t. Abby’s two siblings were as different as night and day. It didn’t matter that Glenn was conservative and Connie was liberal. Nor did it matter that Glenn was the nice one and Connie tended to be a bit rough around the edges. The bottom line was that they were family, and that was all really mattered. They’d no doubt be there for each other during the difficult times. And although Abby never had a good relationship with her sister growing up, it was Connie who ultimately convinced Abby that the University of Virginia was the best college in the state and she should apply there first. It was also ranked the best public university in the country by U.S. News and World Report. Abby took her sister’s advice and was accepted early decision. She never considered going anywhere else.

Her transition to college was much more difficult than she imagined it would be. While she loved UVA, she missed her parents and the comfort and safety her home life had provided. The majority of her time was spent focusing on schoolwork and hanging out with her two roommates, Liza Pruitt and Betsy Lang, who became her closest friends.

Abby first met Liza the day she arrived in Charlottesville. They were assigned to the same dorm. Their friendship was surprising because they were complete opposites. Abby was vivacious, athletic, innately smart and had lots of friends. Liza was shy, awkward and needed to study constantly to make decent grades. Abby was warm, while Liza was cold. Abby was slender, while Liza tended to carry an extra twenty to thirty pounds. But both women were beautiful.

Betsy graduated from the same high school as Abby, but they never considered themselves friends. Betsy was tall, standing five-eleven in her bare feet, and frequently teased Abby about her short stature. She’d often stand next to Abby and rest her elbow on Abby’s shoulder. It drove Abby crazy, but she knew it was all in fun. Betsy’s dark stringy hair, lanky frame and big nose made her much less attractive than Abby, but like Abby, she was very smart. Unlike Abby, Betsy didn’t date and didn’t seem to care. Abby never asked her why. It wasn’t for lack of curiosity, but rather, because she figured if Betsy wanted her to know why, she’d tell her. It was by sheer coincidence the two of them ended up in the same dorm. But during that first year, a friendship blossomed.

After returning from summer break, Abby, Betsy and Liza moved into a townhouse together and became very close friends. They did everything together and lived together for three years. During that time, they grew to know each other and their idiosyncrasies well. Abby assumed they’d be friends forever.

After graduation, Abby moved to Atlanta to work for a large consulting firm, but the three friends stayed in touch through frequent calls, emails and visits. Liza and Betsy kept trying to convince Abby to move back to Virginia. Abby knew that someday, sooner rather than later, she would. But first, she had to prove she could make it on her own. once she accomplished that, she’d go back.

CHAPTER 3

When Abby returned from San Francisco, she and Rob talked daily and they continued to grow closer. During one of those calls, he invited her to spend Thanksgiving with him.

Invite Glenn, he suggested. I’d love to meet your brother.

That sounds wonderful. When do you want me there?

Now would be great, but how about the Wednesday before Thanksgiving?

Ok, I’ll make the reservations today and give you the details. Gosh, I can’t wait, she gushed.

Me either.

Time passed quickly and before Abby knew it, she was on a plane headed west. This time, the flight was a smooth one. Her heart pounded and she started to sweat as she waited for the passengers in front of her to exit. She hated being in the back of the plane and tapped her foot anxiously. By the time she made her way to the security checkpoint and scanned the crowd, her smile quickly faded. Rob was nowhere in sight.

He’s probably stuck in traffic, she thought.

Abby, over here.

She turned in the direction of the voice and saw not Rob, but Rich waving at her. She forced a smile as she approached him.

Rob’s stuck at the office and asked me to get you, he replied in response to her questioning eyes. He’s gonna meet us at Margaritaville. Rich kissed Abby on the cheek and hugged her warmly.

What could be so important? she wondered as they walked through the terminal. Isn’t he excited about seeing me?

Traffic was light and they reached their destination quickly. Rich dropped her at the door and Abby headed up the stairs to the hostess stand to request a table for three. She was seated immediately and ordered a margarita on the rocks while waiting for Rich to return and Rob to arrive. Within five minutes, she saw Rob rushing toward her table, just ahead of Rich. Abby stood and smiled, nearly knocking over her drink as she greeted him. Rob scooped her into his arms and spun her around, then put her down and kissed her gently. Abby smiled fondly at Rich, who’d taken a seat directly across from her.

Gosh, it’s great to see you, Rob told her, running his hand through her blonde hair. Sorry about sending the cavalry, but I wanted to finish everything up tonight so I don’t have to go into the office on Friday.

Abby glanced at Rich, who quickly looked away. The men ordered drinks and a short time later everyone ordered dinner. Abby’s earlier disappointment quickly faded and she spent a pleasant evening catching up on all that had happened since she’d last seen them.

It was close to midnight by the time they reached Rob and Rich’s house, but Abby wasn’t the least bit tired, even though it was three in the morning to her. Rich said goodnight then she and Rob sat in front of the wood fire he’d built, talking until nearly four.

Wow, we better get some sleep, Abby said when she spied the clock. We have a big day tomorrow.

You’re right. C’mon, I’ll tuck you in.

Rob took Abby to his room and made sure she was settled. Goodnight sweetheart, I’m so glad you’re here. He kissed her passionately before heading out to the couch in the living room.

Abby fell into a deep and contented sleep the instant her head hit the pillow.

She slept until nearly ten, extremely late for such an early riser. When the doorbell rang just before noon, Abby ran to answer it. She welcomed her brother inside.

I’m so glad you came! she exclaimed as she hugged him.

Are you kidding? I wouldn’t miss a chance to spend time with my favorite sister.

Abby beamed. She loved being his favorite. They’d always had such a special bond. It had been much too long since their last visit and she was glad Rob suggested inviting him. Just then, Rob came into the foyer, taking a break from grilling the turkey he’d been cooking since before eight that morning. Abby introduced the two men and they shook each other’s hands firmly. Rob motioned for them to follow him outside, then returned to attending the bird. Abby instinctively tried to help, but Rob put his hand up in protest.

Oh, no you don’t. You haven’t seen Glenn in a while. I’ll handle the cooking and you guys relax. He pointed her back to her brother.

But . . . .

No buts. Go!

Abby smiled warmly and returned to Glenn, who’d taken a seat in a padded rocking chair. She sat on a bench next to him. They talked about their jobs, their latest escapades and everything else they’d been doing since they’d last touched base. When Rob announced dinner was ready nearly three hours later, Glenn and Abby followed him inside.

When they reached the dining room, Abby stopped and stared, her eyes wide. The dishes were obviously fine china, two tall vanilla-scented candles were burning, and the feast Rob had prepared was large enough to feed an entire family. Abby smiled, clearly impressed by what he’d done. As she and Glenn took their seats, Rob filled their goblets with a light red wine.

I thought this Pinot would go nicely with the turkey.

Abby lifted her glass and swirled it before taking a sip. She let the wine sit on her tongue for a few seconds before swallowing. It’s perfect.

Conversation centered on family, with Rob talking about his parents, his childhood in Seattle and his religious beliefs. Glenn shared stories about Abby growing up and bragged about her swimming victories and records, going to Nationals for roller skating when she was only eight, her love of dolphins and her piano-playing ability. Abby blushed and bowed her head. When she finally glanced over at Rob, he seemed to be beaming.

After dinner, Abby insisted on doing the dishes, which she washed by hand. The china and silverware were too precious to put in the dishwasher. By the time she’d finished, the clock struck seven.

Glenn stood. I have a long drive ahead so I’d better get going. Thanks so much for including me. Dinner was great. He hugged his sister, then turned to Rob and shook his hand. It’s been a real pleasure. Thanks for your hospitality. I really enjoyed myself.

Glad you could make it, Rob responded warmly.

Abby took her brother’s hand and led him through the house and out to his car. So . . . . what’d ya think?

I like him . . . . a lot. He seems like a really nice and smart guy, and he’s clearly crazy about you.

She smiled and looked off into the distance. Yeah, I’m crazy about him too.

That’s obvious. What’s gonna happen next?

Abby shrugged her shoulders.

Why don’t you look for a job out here? Personally, I’d love it.

I know, but I’d really miss Mom and Dad. Liza and Betsy too. out here, I’d be even further away from them than I am now. Besides, did you forget I’m moving back to Virginia next month?

Oh yeah, I sure did. Congratulations again on the new job. He hugged Abby one more time. See ya soon, sis. He got into his car and headed for Sacramento. Abby waved and watched him until he was out of sight. It was good to see him.

For the next two days, Abby and Rob played tourist, hitting all the attractions they’d missed on her first trip. They climbed to the top of Coit Tower and traveled to Muir Woods, the giant redwood forest north of the city. Even though they were having what Abby thought to be a great time, Rob was unusually quiet. It was as if something else were occupying his mind.

Rob? What’s wrong?

Sorry, Abs. It‘s work. I have so much to do. After I take you to the airport tomorrow, I have to go into the office. But don‘t worry, he smiled and took her hand, today, my focus is you.

His words reassured her and she smiled and sighed. They headed back to the city to her favorite restaurant in Chinatown. She ordered her usual hot and sour soup and spicy sesame chicken. When the check and fortune cookies arrived, Rob told her to choose first.

I‘ll take that one, she said, pointing to the one whose ends were facing her.

After breaking it open, she read its contents then handed it to Rob.

Wow. ‚Major life adjustments are coming your way.‘ That‘s pretty darn accurate. You certainly picked the right cookie.

Abby laughed. I know. Scary isn‘t it?

After Rob paid the bill, they headed to their favorite place and sat at their favorite table near the window. They stayed at the Buena Vista drinking their Irish coffees until it closed for the night.

The following morning, Abby had a tough time getting out of bed. Although she had a million things to do when she got home to prepare for her move back to Virginia, she didn‘t want to leave Rob and San Francisco.

You about ready? Rob asked just as Abby was locking her suitcase.

She nodded and they walked to the car in silence. Neither said much as they drove to the airport, though their hands were clenched together tightly. The ride went quickly and they were parked and at the security checkpoint in what seemed like no time. She hated to leave him there, but she didn‘t have a choice. Terrorism had made the simple act of saying goodbye to loved ones at the gate impossible. Now she would have to imagine what it would be like to turn and look at Rob one last time before she walked through the gate door to head down the jetway to board the plane. He wouldn‘t be able to stare out the window and watch her plane push away from the gate.

Abby glanced at her watch. I better go or I‘m gonna miss my plane. Tears filled her eyes.

I know. Rob took her into his arms and held her tightly. It gave her a warm feeling all over.

Tell you what, Rob said as he placed his hands on her shoulders and eased her away from his chest so he could look at her. How about if I fly out to Virginia and we spend New Years together?

Really? That would be awesome, Abby replied, beaming. But to tell the truth, I‘m getting real tired of crying in airports and telling you goodbye.

Me too. Let‘s figure out how to change that when I see you next month.

Sounds great. Abby hugged him one more time before heading through the metal detector. After she passed through it, she turned. He smiled and waved, then blew her a kiss. She reached out and grabbed it, then touched that hand to her lips. Tears welled up in her eyes and slowly trickled down her cheeks as she headed to her gate.

Abby arrived back in Atlanta in what seemed like record time, having slept most of the way. Raymond Matthews was waiting for her at baggage claim. Abby had known him for several months and they‘d become what she thought were good friends. During the drive home, Abby stared absentmindedly out the window.

What‘s on your mind, Abby?

There‘s something I need to tell you. She paused and he was silent as he waited for her to continue. "I‘m