"What are you doing?!" Claire shrieked, grabbing my arm to drag me back.
But it was too late.
The door swung open, and a face appeared—rosier and healthier than six months ago.
"Ruby, you're back..."
Smack.
My hand moved before he finished. I struck him hard across the face, catching him completely off guard.
Colin's expression cycled through shock and confusion before tears welled in his eyes.
Claire shoved me back immediately, shielding him with her body.
"Ruby Stephens, have you lost your mind? If you have a problem, take it out on me!"
Veins bulged on her forehead. Her glare was murderous—like she wanted to tear me apart.
I didn't hesitate. I slapped her too.
My palm stung from the impact, and my fingernails grazed her cheek, leaving angry red welts.
She froze, stunned into silence.
At work, I was known for being decisive and forceful. At home, I'd always been gentle, accommodating. In all our years of marriage, arguments were rare. Physical violence? Nonexistent.
Colin spotted the watch in my hand and stepped out from behind Claire, immediately adopting an expression of innocent martyrdom.