" Okay, then... Let’s get your blood pressure first.” She picked up the blood pressure cuff and went to apply it to Paige’s arm and was frozen. There was a huge hematoma that covered much of her upper arm. Mel put the cuff aside and gently pulled the gown away from Paige’s back; she had to concentrate not to gasp. She pulled the gown over Paige’s shoulder, down her arm, exposing the bruises on her back, arm, chest. She carefully lifted the gown at the bottom, exposing her thighs. More bruises. She looked at the girl’s face. Tears glistened on her cheeks. “Paige,” Mel said in a whisper. “My God...” Paige put her hands over her face. Shame at having let it happen. “Have you been raped?” Mel asked gently. She shook her head, tears flowing. “No.” “Who did this to you?” she asked. Paige just closed her eyes and shook her head. “It’s okay. You’re safe right now.” “My husband,” she answered in a whisper. “And you’re running away from him?” She nodded. “Here, "
― Robyn Carr , Shelter Mountain (Virgin River, #2)