Elly laughed. “Muffin is not a ball of fluff. Well, that’s not all she is.”
“I realize that. She’s smart, and special, and loves you dearly. However, I also think she’s taken a liking to me, which should say something in my favor. Now, please say yes.”
“Yes,” she replied with a faint, sad smile.
“Thank you.” Leaning forward, he lightly kissed her on the lips, which were soft and full. When he drew back, her eyes glistened as she stared at him in wonder. He entwined their fingers. “I have one last request to make, and this one may be difficult. I’ll call Brent tomorrow and tell him what you told me, but after we get you home, you’ll need to issue a complaint against Arthur detailing what he did.”
“Must I?”
“‘Fraid so. We intend to file legal proceedings against him for abuse.”
“But what if his kicks were an accident? Maybe he didn’t mean to hurt me.”
“Maybe not. However, even if his kicks were an accident, Elly, he beat you with a cane the night before until you passed out, and that wasn’t.”
“Do I have to say that, too?” Her face was a mask of misery. This would be difficult for her, but he’d be right beside her every step of the way. And Brent would help her too. In fact, he suspected the whole community would rally around her in a protective web of support.
“Possibly. Depends on what the lawyers advise. But we’ll start with the events of Friday and go from there. Don’t worry, Elly. We won’t let anything happen to you.”
* * * *
Jerry spent most of the evening reassuring Elly and decided to spend the night with her again. Brent had brought a change of underwear and clothes for him as well as some personal items, though the hospital provided a small care kit for patients and family members.
He thought Elly slept better knowing he was nearby. At least he liked to think so, even if she never said anything. She certainly uttered no objection when he announced he was staying the night. In fact, since she’d made the decision to stay with him, she seemed more agreeable to everything he said.
Having seen Elly’s flashes of temper, Jerry suspected her docility would be short-lived. He’d take things slowly at first, though he expected it wouldn’t be long before Elly earned time over his knee. However, the lady wouldn’t be getting any spankings until all her bruises were gone and she was declared fit to do as she pleased. Until then, he wasn’t opposed to ordering non-corporal punishments, like panties-down corner time, even if she had to do it lying in bed, or enforcing an early lights-out, no reading bedtime, or even restricting her playtime with Muffin. He suspected lifting Muffin would probably be the first rule Elly broke. Though the poodle barely tipped the scale at six pounds, she weighed four more pounds than Elly would be allowed to lift for at least a week once she got out of the hospital. And his knowledge of the lady and her dog suggested neither of them were going to be happy about the restriction. But he’d cross that muddy slope when they came to it.
He waited until 8 AM to call Brent.
“Morning,” Brent said, his tone solemn.
“Good morning,” Jerry corrected. “Elly’s agreed to file a complaint and press charges.”
Brent let out a loud sigh, radiating relief. “She told you what happened?”
“Every ugly bit of it.” He glanced at Elly who was swirling her spoon in a bowl of mushy oatmeal.
“How’s she doing?”
“Better than I expected. Want to talk to her?” Elly gaped at him in surprise and shook her head.
“How does she feel about talking to me?”
“Uncertain, but it might be good practice.” Elly vehemently shook her head now, and Jerry smiled at her. Brent was a friend. If she couldn’t talk to him, she’d suffer a panic attack when it came time to talk to the lawyers.
“Okay, but don’t force her, Jerry. We should ease into this in a way that is least upsetting for her.”
“Right.” Jerry handed his cell phone to Elly. “Go on, sweetie. He’s on our side and he wants to make sure you’re okay.”
With a show of extreme reluctance, she accepted the device and put it to her ear. “Hello?”
She listened for a moment, then said, “Thank you, Brent.” Her eyes shone with tears. “I know, but…” She paused, as if uncertain how to phrase her thoughts. “It’s not easy for me. He’s my husband.” She listened again, not saying anything for a few minutes.
“Yes, I understand.” She glanced over at Jerry, so he smiled encouragingly at her. “He spent the night here with me.” She grinned. “I’m sure he will, and thank you. Bye.” Reaching out, she returned the phone to Jerry.
“I’m back.”
“She’s scared, Jerry. I can hear it in her voice. I tried to reassure her we would make this as easy as possible for her, but I wouldn’t be surprised if she changes her mind about filing a complaint.”
“She won’t.”
“Possibly not, but if she does, you mustn’t see it as a reflection against you. You’ve been wonderful with her, and she clearly trusts you; however, she married Arthur, so she retains an allegiance to him that’s going to be difficult for her to dissolve. He will view her actions as betrayal and attempt to guilt her into returning to him.”
“I’d like to prevent that from happening at all costs.”
“I know you would. We’ll do our best. I’ll speak with the lawyers and do what I can to get things started. They’ve had some experience in this matter, so I’ll let them discuss the issue with Arthur. Any word yet when Elly will be released?”
“No, but our conversation last evening didn’t help her blood pressure any, so I suspect they’ll want to keep her another day. She’s being monitored every couple of hours now. Makes for a short night.”
“I can imagine it does. Okay, I’ll phone you later if anything significant develops.”
“Thanks.” The moment he ended the call, his cell buzzed again. He checked the display and grimaced. Arthur.
Jerry rose to his feet. “I need to step into the corridor to take this one, sweetie. I’ll be right outside, so call out if you want anything, okay?”
She nodded. “Is it the clinic? Do you have to leave?”
Lying wasn’t permitted for him either. “No. It’s personal, and nothing for you to worry about. Finish your oatmeal.”
He stepped outside the room. “This is Dr. Douglas.”
“Douglas. Let me speak to my wife.”
“Ah, Mr. Benson. How nice of you to call.”
“Can the shit, and let me speak with Eleanor.”
“Can you say, ‘fat chance’?”
“I’m coming down there, now.”
“Fine. I’ll notify the police. They’ll be happier than kids on a picnic to slam some iron jewelry on your wrists, I’m sure.”
“For what reason?”
“Abusing your wife for starters. Elly told me what you did and Brent is reaching out to Corbin’s Bend lawyers as we speak. No doubt you’ll be getting a call or a visitor within a few hours, if not minutes.”
“Put me through to my wife.” The demand was firm and non-negotiable.
“You can huff and puff all you want, Benson, but I’m not letting you speak to Elly. Now be a good little bully and go away.”
“Eleanor understands everything I did was for her own good, so your attempt to sway her into speaking against me will backfire, Douglas, and I’ll make sure both you and your veterinary practice suffer for it.” Arthur Benson disconnected the call.
Trying to collect his patience and bring down his skyrocketing blood pressure, Jerry took several deep breaths and plastered a smile on his lips before he returned to Elly.
“Finish your breakfast like a good girl?”
Her hands folded tightly in her lap, Elly scowled at him. Now what?
“That was Arthur, wasn’t it? He’s going to cause trouble, isn’t he?”
Jerry resumed his seat. “I can handle Arthur, Elly. He’s not your concern.”
&nb
sp; “I married the man, Jerry. I know how determined he is.” She unclenched her fingers. “This was a mistake. I shouldn’t have said anything.”
Leaning forward, he gently touched her arm. “Look at me, Elly.” She shook her head and stared at her untouched breakfast, so he sat back and waited. He couldn’t force her, and wouldn’t even if he could. She had to want this for herself. Not him. A few seconds passed before she risked a glance in his direction. He met her gaze, but said nothing.
“I’m sorry.”
Not sure what she was apologizing for, he maintained his silence.
“Are you angry with me?” she asked finally.
“No. Why? Should I be?”
She gave a quick nod. “I’m being difficult and argumentative.”
“No. You’re having second thoughts because you’re scared, and that’s natural. But going back to Arthur won’t solve a thing, and you know it.”
Another nod from her filled Jerry with a sense of relief. They weren’t free of doubt’s clinging vines, but if he could get her to see backtracking wouldn’t be helpful, he was one-step closer to getting her to admit leaving her husband was the right decision.
She hesitated, then in a small voice asked, “Would you hold me?”
He shifted her rolling table to the side and moved in beside her to draw her close. “I can’t think of anything else I’d rather do right now.”
“I’m sorry,” she whispered against his chest. “I know I’m being a coward.”
With his arms wrapping her in a secure hug, he ran his hands up and down her slender back. “No, Elly. You’re being human. That’s normal, not cowardly. I love holding you. I could do it all day long and never get tired of it. However, I realize you’re beset with conflicting emotions, and I’m not going to take advantage of your vulnerability. If you want me to pull away, I will, but it won’t be by my choice or anyone else’s request. Only yours. Do you understand what I’m saying?” She nodded against his chest, so he continued to soothe her as best he could, hoping she also understood the words he so badly wanted to say, but didn’t, out of consideration for her.
* * * *
Elly knew it was wrong for her to seek the protection of Jerry’s arms, but she needed him to hold and reassure her. She wanted the security he offered, and yet struggled with guilt over taking advantage of him. What did she have to offer in return? Only a slightly used, allegedly abused, and marginally neurotic woman. A prime example of damaged goods. What’s worse, a part of her suspected entering into a relationship with another domestic disciplinarian would be a mistake. The mere thought of participating in a DD lifestyle again made her skin crawl and her breathing speed up, and yet Jerry’s protective instincts combined with his no-nonsense attitude and firm authority was what attracted her most to him. He possessed a quiet strength that commanded her respect, rather than enforced it.
Elly wasn’t foolish enough to believe she and Jerry wouldn’t have their share of difficulties. Perhaps things wouldn’t work out between them. Perhaps she’d be the one to depart Corbin’s Bend. But for right now, she gratefully accepted the shelter of his embrace and had no desire to leave his arms.
“You didn’t finish your breakfast,” he commented idly after a few minutes.
“I was too upset to eat.”
When he drew back to look at her, she couldn’t resist running her fingers through his sun-dappled brown hair. He smiled. “You need to eat, sweetie, or they won’t release you tomorrow.”
“You don’t think there’s a chance we can get out of here today?”
He lightly kissed her nose. “No. Not after what happened yesterday. They’ll want you to get up more today. Sit in a chair for a while. Take an arm-in-arm stroll with me along the corridors to make sure you don’t grow dizzy again.”
Though she wanted to leave the hospital as soon as possible, the thought of spending more leisure time with Jerry did hold a certain appeal. “I guess that’s not too bad.”
He chuckled. “Glad to hear you say that. I’d hate to think my company was wearing thin already.”
Giving her nose a wrinkle she said, “You know that’s not the case. I’m so grateful you were able to stay with me, when you would have been much more comfortable in your own bed doing the things you normally do. You probably want to get back to your clinic, too.”
“I’ve been checking in with them every so often. Luckily, yours was the only emergency we’ve had in the past few days, and they have no difficulty handling the usual day-to-day stuff.”
“All the same, I bet they miss you.”
He frowned. “Trying to get rid of me?”
“No. Just feeling guilty about keeping you.”
“Well, don’t. If I had to leave for any reason, I’d arrange for someone else to stay with you. So relax.”
A new nurse came in and regarded their cozy side-by-side position with an exaggerated frown. “I don’t believe Mrs. Benson is up to any hanky-panky, yet, sir. Are you her husband?”
“Brother,” they both answered at once and the nurse laughed.
“Right. I can see the definite family resemblance in the way you two siblings hug. Did the other nurses actually buy that story?”
Jerry rose from the bed. “Extenuating circumstances.”
The nurse regarded Jerry carefully for a moment, then nodded, and Elly let out a sigh of relief. The last thing she wanted was for Jerry to get in trouble for impersonating a relative. After introducing herself, Jennifer went on to ask Elly if she wouldn’t like to take a shower and slip into a new gown. “We can waterproof your bandage. I suspect you’ll feel one hundred percent better once you’ve freshened up a bit.”
Elly agreed.
“Good. If you think you can manage on your own, I’ll stay here and change your linens, so you can call me if you get dizzy or need help,” Jennifer suggested.
Jerry assisted Elly out of bed and gave her a kiss on the cheek. “I’ll go down to the cafeteria and have a little breakfast while you’re getting squeaky clean. Want me to bring you back some more oatmeal?”
“No thank you.”
“You barely touched your breakfast,” Jennifer noted with a frown. “Would you drink a protein shake?”
Elly shrugged. “If I had to, I guess.”
“Perfect,” Jerry piped in. “You’re favorite flavor is chocolate, right?” She rewarded him with a shy smile and a nod.
“I’ve got just the ticket then.” Bending forward, Jerry gave Elly another peck. “Be back in a jiffy.”
“Your brother’s super cute,” Jennifer said after a moment. “I wouldn’t mind having a ‘brother’ like him take care of me. Not in the least.”
Elly met the other woman’s gaze. “He’s a life saver. Literally.”
Chapter Eleven
After Elly showered, washed her hair and changed her gown, admittedly, she did feel better, but her spirits didn’t improve until Jerry returned carrying what looked like a large, chocolate milk shake.
“For you, milady,” he said, bowing as he offered her the treat. “Chock full of protein and vitamins, so drink up, afterward you and I can go for a stroll down the corridors. I even managed to secure a robe from the gift shop that has closures on the sleeves and back, so you can slip into it with your IV in place. That way you won’t feel too undressed while we’re chatting with the neighbors. Jennifer can help you into the garment, or I can.”
Surprised by this thoughtfulness, Elly held out her arm. “Would you?”
“My pleasure.” He assisted her to her feet and eased on the fleecy green robe, which coordinated well with the pink gown Jennifer had helped her into, and made sure the covering was well fastened in the back. “Perfect,” he murmured, giving her fingers a squeeze. “Now drink your shake, and we’ll go for a walk.”
Smiling at his playfulness, she sat down again just as his phone buzzed. He glanced at the display and frowned. Her stomach clenched in response.
“This is Dr. Douglas.” He listened, then c
hecked his watch. “How long ago? Okay, yes. I understand. Tell her not to worry. I’ll be there as soon as I can.”
“What’s wrong,” Elly asked when he disconnected the call.
“I’m sorry, sweetie, but we’re going to have to postpone our walk. I have an emergency. A driver ran over Beth Little’s beagle. Hit and run. She’s hysterical and the dog needs emergency surgery. My team can set things up, but I need to do the operation.”
“Of course,” she replied smoothly, despite her pounding heart. Traffic accidents were rare in Corbin’s Bend. Drivers always kept an eye out for children and pets. When he hesitated, she waved him off. “Don’t worry about me, Jerry. I’m fine.”
“I know you’ll be.” He pressed the speed dial number on his phone. “I’ll check if Brent or Marcus can stay with you.”
She put a hand out to stop him. “No, Jerry. Don’t. I feel guilty enough keeping you; don’t pull them away from their jobs as well. I need a little alone time anyway. I have some thinking to do.”
“If your words are meant to reassure me, they don’t.”
She rose to her feet and stepped closer to him. “I want to be with you, Dr. Douglas, more than anything, but even you have to admit this is a big step for me. I was brought up to believe divorce was wrong, and my husband was always right. However, I’m slowly coming to accept Arthur may have been wrong about many things. I think he cared about me, but I also think he cared more about how I made him look. Appearances are terribly important to him, and he considered me an embarrassment sometimes.”
“Hmm. We need to talk some more about that, but not now. Okay?”
Nodding, she kissed him on the cheek. “I’m fine. Go do your job.”
He held her face between his hands, then bent forward to kiss her gently on the lips. She understood Jerry merely meant to reassure her, but Elly met the gesture with greedy enthusiasm and an open mouth. With a groan, Jerry clutched her closer and deepened his kiss. Their tongues met and the scent of peppermint flavored toothpaste, coffee and Jerry filled Elly’s nostrils. A heady combination, which only fueled Elly’s desire for more, but she pulled away with reluctance. Jerry needed to leave.
A Simple Misunderstanding (Corbin's Bend) Page 13