“Thanks!”“My pleasure!”“Fatima, you’re a foreign exchange student, aren’t you?”“Yep, from Syria.”Mark’s face froze. “Syria? Ah.....”Fatimanodded. “It’s really not that surprising anymore. There’ve been tremendous changes...”Mark’s eyes were full of sympathy. “What a tragedy. Were you there when things really got ugly?”“For about two years, with my family.”In great tenderness, Mark asked. “Did they survive?”“Yes. In Allah’s mercy, we all finally managed to escape.” She gave a deep sigh. “It’s. Although it looks like Charles will never make partner at the law firm where he works, we certainly don't lack for money thanks to a very large trust fund left by Charles's grandfather.Some women call me Charles's "trophy wife" behind my back and titter about the difference in our ages, but I know they are just jealous of me. Charles bought us a very nice house in Potomac and he loves buying me jewelry and pretty clothes. I love the way I look in short skirts, high heels and slinky blouses. I'm. She reached back and Jake took her hand for support. “But, I still don’t remember anything from the point I was given that drink until I woke up in the hospital.”Bobbi patted her arm, “And, it is probably for the better, dear.”Vogel leaned forward with his hand open, “Then, this case might just evaporate. We just don’t have anything. I’m not saying there is anyone in this room who is doubting you, we’re not. But, none of it will hold up in a legal hearing.”Jake put his hands on Annie shoulders,. I was one of those good kids who never get in trouble. I mean, nobody ever yelled at me, and she was treating me like Id killed her dog or something. After that, I heard an occasional swear word come from the bathroom, but that was all. It finally dawned on me that she wasnt mad at me, I was just a convenient target. I still felt pretty bad, though, and I was afraid of what she would do when she came out. Im short for my age to begin with, most people assume Im like nine, even though Im.