Julie spotted us and looked relieved, like we were her salvation.

"Ben, help me, please help me..."

My husband turned away, treating her like she was less than a stranger.

I crouched down and grabbed her outstretched hand. "Julie, you made your bed, now lie in it."

Tears in her eyes, she glared at me like she wanted me dead. "This is all you! You spread these rumors, didn't you?!"

I let go of her hand and smiled, whispering in ...