Page 8 of Don't Leave Me

I swallowed. “It’s spring. I was hoping to spend time in your house in the Hamptons. I love the beach at this time of year. But, as you’ve just articulated, asking you for anything doesn’t happen. A fool’s errand.”

He released his hand. Slowly, cautiously, assessing my statement.

“See, now, darling. I can be reasonable. Of course you should spend time in the Hamptons. It is lovely this time of year. I’ll make sure you have keys and a security code to get in the house. I’m heading to California in a few weeks to meet with some wealthy donors interested in supporting my political future, so I won’t be needing you for at least the next few months. Come next winter, however, I’ll be announcing my candidacy for senator. This will require all your time. Do you understand that?”

I nodded. Waited to see if he had anything else to say, then I slowly walked out of the apartment, careful to shut the door quietly behind me. Careful not to appear as if I was running to the elevator, and only once I was inside, did I fall to my knees and vomit.

* * *

Six weeks and five days after the wedding

A dark road in South Hampton, Long Island

Ashleigh

I looked at the gas gauge. Empty. Suddenly, my mouth was dry, and my heart was beating out of my chest.

A beam of light from behind got my attention. I looked into the rearview mirror and could see headlights approaching me.

“Shit,” I muttered.

The car slowed and stopped behind me.

Someone wanted to help me.

Or, at least, I thought he might.

I got out of the car and turned to face the car behind me. The headlights were still on and I couldn’t see the person who approached. I lifted my hand to block the glare of the lights.

No, I thought.This wasn’t part of the plan.