Ashley was livid. She glared at him as she burst out, "But we've been separated for four years. We haven't been a couple in any real sense, and even Grandma has agreed to our divorce. What gives you the right to say that?! Give me back my ring!"
"What?" Gabriel retorted while staring at her, "Do you actually want to be his wife?"
"Why not? Why can't I chase my own happiness?"
"What?" Gabriel's voice softened. His neck was stiff, and he stood straight, enveloping Ashley in his shadows. "Really? You think you can find happiness marrying a man who won't even acknowledge your existence? Are you expecting a wedding with him, Ashley?" He stepped closer with each word. "Stop your pipe dream."
Gabriel always did this—deny her, abandon her, and obstruct her path to a new life! Even still now, h
