Page 26 of Twisted Betrayal

Chapter Eleven

Riley couldn’t takeher eyes off her husband as they sat across from each other at a small table, eating delicious food.She also couldn’t wipe the smile off her face as she listened to him.

They sat at the table for close to two hours.It was one of the most memorable dates she’d had with Rick.Maybe because she thought she had lost him not that long ago.She shoved the thought away because she didn’t want to darken the night with him.

“How about a short drive before we go home?”Rick said as he paid the check.

“I’d like that.It’s beautiful out.”

Her husband drove them around town for an hour before heading to their house.Most of the time they sat in silence, holding hands, enjoying peace, and appreciating the fact they were together.That they hadn’t let anyone, especially someone like Gloria, break them up and destroy their world.

Rick pulled into the garage, turned off the car, and pushed the button for the overhead garage door.

“Are we going to work tomorrow?”she asked.

He studied her a moment.“You look rested, and if you feel up to it, you can.”

“I think I’d like to.I need to keep busy, and I miss my kids,” she told him.

“Then I think it’s okay.It’s not too late.You have time to call your principal.”

“I’ll do that.”She waited until he came around the car and opened her door.It was something he’d done from their very first date and something she was used to, and she appreciated the gesture.

Once in the house, she placed her purse on the counter and pulled out her phone.It rang a few times before Donald, her principal, answered.

“Hi, Donald, I’m sorry if I’m calling too late.”

“No, you’re fine.I hope you’re feeling better.”

The man was in his late sixties but had more energy than a teenager.He was the type of principal who actually came out of his office and mingled with the kids and staff.Every child thought of him as their best friend.He was always there to talk, no matter how mundane.He really cared about the kids.

She smiled.“I do.Thank you for asking.Would it be possible for me to come back to school tomorrow?”

Donald chuckled.“Absolutely.Your kids miss you.”

“I miss them, too.”

“Did that friend ever get in touch with you?”he asked.

“What friend?”she asked.

“A woman came to the school office the second day you were home sick.She said she was looking for you, and I sent her to your house,” Donald said.“I told her you didn’t feel good.I hope that was all right?”

Riley tensed, and her hand trembled.“That’s fine.Did she say her name?”

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