She peered through the peephole. Shock vaulted through her at the sight of Helen on the other side. She debated not opening the door at all. She was in no mood for more of Helen’s lies.

Helen knocked again.

Ashley opened the door.

“Hi, Ashley. May I come in?”

“Why are you here?” Ashley asked, not stepping aside.

“Look, I know. You’re mad at me because of things I’ve said and done, but I really need to talk to you.”

“All you do is lie to me, Helen. Why should I listen to you?”

“I didn’t lie about Dare and Adam.”

“But Adam wasn’t the cause of the divorce.”

“Says him. But I don’t believe it.”

Ashley could tell from Helen’s face that it was the truth and she remembered Dare saying that Helen needed someone to blame. Without that, she might have to believe that she was the reason Dare had left. And every other man in her life. That’s why she acted up, too. Because then if they left, she could blame it on the bad behavior rather than believing that she was basically unlovable. But deep inside, that was probably exactly what she believed.

Ashley sighed and stepped aside. Helen followed her into the apartment to the living room.

“Ash, I’m sorry,” she said as she sank onto the couch. “I know I’ve said some things, and done some things”—she pursed her lips—“that must make you hate me. I’ve been confused and … well…”

To Ashley’s complete surprise, tears welled in Helen’s eyes.

“The thing is … I’m in trouble.”

“Does this have to do with your drinking?”

Helen’s eyes widened. “Dare told you about that?”

“You better get used to it. Dare and I are getting serious and he confides things to me.” Ashley didn’t want to tell her that they were in love, and she certainly wasn’t going to tell her about Adam. She’d leave that to Dare to tell her in his own time and in his own way.

“Ash, I know you’re probably not going to believe me—and I don’t blame you—but…” Helen reached out and took her hand. “I’m scared and…” She gazed at Ashley with big dewy eyes. “I really need your help.”

“Why my help? What’s the problem?”

Helen bit her lip. “I’m pregnant.”

Ashley’s jaw dropped open.

“I was hoping that I could convince Dare to let me move in with him so he can take care of me and the baby, but that will never happen if Dare stays with you and … well, I know that the three of you are starting a relationship together. There’s no way Dare will let me stay with all of you living together. I don’t get along with Adam and … well, I’ve made you uncomfortable.” She squeezed Ashley’s hand. “I really need him and I’m afraid he’ll send me away. And my mom won’t have anything to do with me.”

“Even if that happens, you can manage on your own. A lot of women these days—”