Immediately Abigail's stomach twisted painfully.
"If my grandmother," Jerry continued, "finds out even a hint that this marriage was fixed..."
He let the words hang heavily between them.
"She will instruct me to divorce you immediately," Jerry said, his voice flat and cold.
"And believe me... if she gives that order, I won't think twice."
He sat back, folding his arms across his chest.
"So knowing what's at stake," Jerry said,"you better act perfectly."
Abigail nodded slowly, fear tightening her chest.
"You better understand me very quickly now," Jerry said.
"I don't have endless patience."
He ran a hand through his hair, sighing lightly.
"And my grandmother..."
He gave a bitter little laugh.
"My grandmother is good at seeing through people. Very good."
He paused for a moment, thinking carefully about his next words.
"To be honest," Jerry said quietly,
"I'm not even sure if I really wanted to marry yet."
He shrugged lightly, his face unreadable.
