Slammed against the wall, she banged her head. He moved in on her, his fists doubled up. Evelyn shielded her face and braced for the blows. Screaming, she was knocked down to the hardwood floor by the power of his fists hitting her again and again.

Her face hurt, her ribs hurt, her entire body hurt. He'd beat her to death if he could. He eased up a moment to catch his breath, turning his back on her. Painfully, she rose before he could turn and face her again. Knowing he might kill her if she remained defenseless, adrenaline surged through her. She needed a weapon.

He came at her. His face was red. He was not a small man. For a moment, Evelyn forgot all about her slender frame and small stature. She was mad now, tired of his insufferable abuse. She turned, ran and grabbed a lanp. She swung around toward him, her arms raised holding the lamp with both hands. She brought it down upon him with all of her might. It grazed him and only served to anger him more.

"You crazy Bitch! I'm gonna' kill you."