{The Calm Before the Storm}Betty let out a long, roughed breath, her chest trembling as Adam finally released his grip on Ruby.On the floor, Ruby looked like a frightened, broken animal. She lay on her side, clutching her throat with both hands, dark red bruises already blooming across her skin where Adam's fingers had dug in.Despite Everything...despite the violent slap, the vile insults, and the constant torment....Betty couldn't stop the wave of empathy that washed over her. She took a slow, hesitant step forward, keeping her voice low and gentle."Ruby..." Betty murmured, her blue eyes filled with genuine concern. "Are you... are you okay?"Ruby's head snapped toward her, her bloodshot eyes burning with absolute hatred. "Don't touch me!" she rasped, her voice raw and ruined from the choking. "Don't you dare come near me, you filthy bitch!"Behind Betty, Adam scoffed, rolling his broad shoulders with total nonchalance. He looked at Betty like she had lost her mind. He hadn't e
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