May

“You’re back, darling?” Richard’s warm voice filled the entrance hall as I walked in. He was sitting in the living room, a glass of wine in his hand, looking perfectly at ease. “Welcome home. How was shopping?”

“Yes,” I replied, forcing brightness into my voice. “It was good. Thank you.”

Richard stood, setting down his wine, and moved toward me with that gentle, easy affection he always showed. He was about to pull me into a hug when he stopped dead. His eyes locked onto my face, onto the mark on my cheek, and his expression shifted instantly from warmth to sharp concern.

“What happened to you?” he asked,...