Chapter 7
The next day Abbey called Liz to see how Annie was doing. Liz was worried because Annie had basically shut them out. The rape counselor told Liz and Doug that this was just a coping mechanism and that it would pass. But it had to be up to Annie as to when she was ready to reach out. All her parents could do was to be there, and be ready when she was ready.
Another issue was the press. As soon as the police report was filed, reporters showed up at the Westin's house, hanging around for a picture or a comment. It had taken the Service blocking off the street to give the family some privacy.
Abbey asked Liz if she could come out to the farm for a little while. Liz made arrangements with Doug so she could drive out there that evening.
When Liz arrived, two glasses of wine were poured and the two women settled in the den.
"Liz, I have something to tell you. Up to now, only your father and I have known about this. We thought it would be best that you girls never find out, but because of this assault on Annie, I have decided that maybe the secret has been kept too long."
Abbey then proceeded to share her story with Liz, who sat there for an hour in utter disbelief. At the end of the story, all Liz could say was "Oh, Mom."
"It happened before any of you girls were even thought of so, there was no reason to share with you. I eventually got through it. Your father was there every step of the way. My only regret is that I pushed him away from me so long. I hurt him deeply and I have tried to never push him out of my life ever again. I think our relationship is stronger because of it."
"Mom, was the guy ever caught?"
"No. For a long time I couldn't stay in the apartment by myself. I was always wondering if he would come back. And then we moved to London. But Annie is lucky in a way. She knows who did this and he's been arrested. At least she won't have to keep looking over her shoulder, wondering if Tom will do it again."
Both women were lost in their own thoughts for a few minutes.
Then Abbey spoke. "Now, I came back here to help Annie, but only if you and Doug will agree. It'll be a hard process for everyone to go through and I'm sure you both are already feeling tremendous guilt for allowing her to go out with the creep. So, as sort of an impartial observer maybe I can help her a little. What do you think?"
"Well, I need to talk this over with Doug. But I'm in favor of it. I'll call you later and let you know." Liz paused for a second and then looked into her mother's eyes.
"Mom, are you going to tell the others? This is a tremendous secret you've been carrying around for so many years. Let us share some of the load."
Abbey started to tear. "Thanks, Liz. Yes, when the time is right, I'll be sharing the story with Ellie and Zoey. But right now I want to help Annie. She has to know that this was not her fault and that men can be kind and gentle creatures. Even if they can be jackasses as well."
Both women laughed in agreement.