[ there's a ringing somewhere in her head, and she doesn't even notice lifting her hand and slapping him, hard, across the cheek - not until the deed is done and her palm is stinging. susan doesn't cry - not in front of people, not in front of her family, be it here or in that other place, the one that she doesn't think or talk about - and she still isn't, now. but there's a burning ache in her heart and up her throat it goes and she tastes something bitter in her mouth and she swallows, hard.
she doesn't speak. she doesn't trust herself to. she just needs some moments to gain the control she's lost, and all will be well again.]
no subject
she doesn't speak. she doesn't trust herself to. she just needs some moments to gain the control she's lost, and all will be well again.]