Chapter 16

After a long day at the local courthouse to obtain a restraining order, Abby left with a temporary order in hand. Her heart felt a little lighter, although both she and Mark knew that a restraining order was just a piece of paper. It helped, but it wasn't going to stop Derek if he wanted to hurt Abby, unfortunately.

Caleb had told them he would do everything in his power as a police officer to assist her. Based on the evidence provided and with Caleb's help, the judge had agreed to issue an immediate restraining order. The court would notify Derek, and another hearing would be held at a later date.

Abby was quiet as she walked with Mark back to his truck. This hadn't been what she'd imagined doing on her day off. She got spooked by random noises, afraid that it was Derek returning to finish what he'd started.

Sometimes she had a hard time believing he would hurt her—at least physically. Hurt her with words? Absolutely. But he'd never threatened her like this when they'd been dating.