My Quiet Place

Chapter 49: Guilt

I felt my eyes water I couldn't help but think about all the memories we had shared together and how much I had missed her. It was a moment of pure joy and relief, knowing that Ruby was back in my life.

In order for me to see her face, I slightly pulled back. Ruby looked just as I remembered her, with her bright eyes and contagious laughter. It was like no time had passed at all, and we picked up right where we left off.

I couldn't help but take notice of her bruised and battered face, though. I touched her blue and purple forehead with my hand. She flinched at my touch, and I knew that something terrible must have happened to her. I had so many questions.

"Ruby...what happened?" I waited for her to respond, hoping she would give me some answers. The silence between us was heavy, and I could feel my heart racing as I braced myself for the worst.

"Let's talk inside." Ruby's face was pale, and her eyes were red from crying. We walked towards the entrance. I could tell she had been through something traumatic, and I wanted to be there for her.

The estate was beautiful and big. As we entered the castle, I noticed the grand staircase and expensive decor, but my attention quickly shifted back to Ruby. We sat in the living room, and that's where she opened up about everything. Her father. Her brother. Her mother and her fiance. I listened attentively as she poured out her heart, sharing the pain and struggles she had endured. It was clear that she needed someone to confide in, and I was grateful that she trusted me enough to share her deepest secrets.

"Did he hurt you, Ruby?" I asked, my heart breaking for her as I reached out to take her hand. She nodded slowly, tears streaming down her face. "Physically, no. But emotionally...he tore me apart." Her voice was barely above a whisper as she spoke, and I could see the weight of her pain etched into every line of her face.

I squeezed her hand gently, offering her what comfort I could. "You don't have to carry that pain alone, Ruby. I'm here for you, always."

"Men stormed in when he was about to hurt me and brought me here. I realised after a day that it was Diego's people. The people here are nice, Annika." I couldn't imagine the fear and confusion she must have felt in that moment.

I couldn't be more grateful to Matteo for saving Ruby. He knew she was here when he sent me to leave. The realisation hit me, and I couldn't help but let tears run down my face. I felt a mix of emotions: relief that Ruby was safe, gratitude towards Matteo for his help, and fear of what could have happened if he hadn't intervened.

I wanted to reach out and hug Ruby to make sure she was really here and safe. But at the same time, I didn't want to overwhelm her with my emotions. I took a deep breath and tried to steady myself. "I'm so glad you're okay, Ruby," I said softly.

"How is Diego?" Her words make me look up at her. She doesn't know. I calmed myself down before answering, trying to keep my voice steady. "Diego is on a mission," I say, feeling the weight of the words as they leave my lips.

Slowly, I explained everything to her and why we were both there. I could see the confusion and shock on her face as she listened to me, but I knew it was important for her to understand the seriousness of the situation. As I finished speaking, I waited anxiously for her response.

I left out the car situation. I knew if I told her, she would feel extremely guilty and worry even more.

Ruby fixed her scarf before speaking, her eyes filled with concern. "I had no idea," she said softly.

"Diego is one of the most determined people I know, and he won't stop until he completes his mission."

"I have no doubt that he will succeed, but I'm worried about the risks he's taking," Ruby said, her voice trembling slightly. I know Ruby is forced to put aside her love for Diego, but I also know that she can't bear the thought of losing him. I can tell that she's struggling to come to terms with the danger he's putting himself in. As a friend, I want to support her, but I also know that Diego's mission is important, and he has his reasons for taking such risks.