She didn't mean it, not in the least. Ben's acceptance of their marriage had granted her a sense of security she would otherwise be entirely unaware of. The past few months weren't perfect, of course, but she thought she was happy. More importantly, Melody had foolishly believed Ben to be happy, too.

"I meant it in Paris," she reminded him. They might've been spared this grief and frustration had he only thought of this sooner. "And I still mean it now. I'll not condemn you to a life of lies and misery. Do what you will."