Hitched & Hitched Again: A Comedy of Marital Mayhem

Chapter 763

"I didn't do it, I swear... Please, don't hit me... Dad, stop, it hurts, it really hurts..."

Tarquin's brow furrowed with concern as he rushed over and wrapped his arms around her, "Elysia!"

It was as if a jolt of electricity shot through her, her body trembling violently as she fought back, "Don't hit me! Get away from me!"

But Tarquin held her tight, his heart breaking into pieces.

Those damn Thorne family monsters!

"Elysia, it's me! Wake up-" Tarquin clung to her, calling out, hoping to snap her out of the nightmare.

After a struggle, Elysia's eyes fluttered open, tears veiling her vision.

She looked around, timid and cautious, her eyes wide with the fear of a little girl who's just experienced something terrifying.

"Elysia..." Tarquin's heart ached for her.

Elysia stared at him for a moment, as if recognizing him for the first time, and then burst into tears, burying herself in his embrace as if seeking refuge,

nightmare,

in his throat, his eyes swelling

hugged her close, trying hard to keep his own emotions in check, his voice

here now. No one will ever hurt you again! You have me,

horrific dream dragging

endured as a child was a blur, forgotten

disciplining her was as routine

her when

and she couldn't afford her favorite dresses

and poor grades would somehow always end up being Elysia's fault in the

in the Thorne family was upset, Elysia was

or kneel outside in thunderstorms and snow

common.

a child, she didn't understand what domestic abuse was, or that she could seek legal protection. She endured it all alone, hiding her tears

couldn't let the Thorne family see her tears, for

protect herself.

from hitting

bastard, a slut, a worthless dog, an ungrateful

they allowed her to attend school, though