Love Burned, She Rose Unscathed

Chapter 833

"Have an honest conversation with him-tell him what's on your mind, what you're unhappy about, and what you expect from him. Isn't that the only way to actually solve your problems?"

"See? That's exactly the attitude I'm talking about," Kathleen scoffed, her lips curling in a sneer. "You always make everything sound so easy, as if any problem that comes your way just melts away. Like you're the only smart one in the world, the only one who knows how to come up with solutions!"

"If I could get Teague to listen to me-why the hell would I be here talking to you?" She practically growled, her voice trembling with anger.

Madge's tone turned serious. "You're married. Don't you think a married couple should talk things through, work together to figure things out?"

Kathleen let out a bitter laugh, her jaw clenched so tightly it seemed she might draw blood. "Yeah, well-he doesn't even treat me like his wife!"

Madge paused, searching Kathleen's face for a long moment before lifting her eyes again. "I'm sorry, but I can't do what you're asking."

“And what's that supposed to mean?” Kathleen's eyes narrowed sharply. “Are you still hoping to get back together with him or something?"

"First of all, your request is unreasonable. Why should I agree to it?"

"Second, the three of us-me, Teague, and you-we grew up together. If I did what you're asking, what then? I'm not allowed to even speak to him anymore? Am I supposed to pretend we're complete strangers? Does that sound realistic to you?"

"And finally, I have no obligation to promise you anything. Just like you have no right to tell me how to live my life.”

voice shook with accusation. "So in the end,

Some people, she realized, would never listen—no matter how many times you tried to explain, they'd cling

turned to head

dark and low. "Aren't you afraid I'll tell your husband about your past with Teague? Think

so Kathleen could see the amusement on her face. "Go

"You-You're not afraid?"

why should I be? He

"Norris knows about

wouldn't he? Sure, I lost my memory for a while, but now that I remember

just-told him?" Kathleen stared

Madge nodded. "Of course."

"And he wasn't... angry?"

genuinely baffled. "Why would he be

conversation left her with

hadn't turned out nearly as blissful

brittle laugh. "God, you're such a fake, Aberdeen! Seriously, you're

ignored her and continued