Disbelief and shock

The sight of terror and desperation on Patrick's face caused her to choke on her words. However, it wasn't aimed at her. He wasn't concentrating on her. He had his eye fixed on the door.

His alleged fiancée caught her attention as she followed his gaze. She stopped at the doorway, staring at them in shock, a look of pain on her face.

She heard Patrick reply, "It's not what you think." There was anxiety in his voice. She looked at him; it was clear he was afraid.

He stepped down the little stairs. She grinned. Given how rapidly his expression had changed and the sight of pure fear on his face, he must truly love his fiancée. She pondered.

Gabby murmured as she straightened herself in the seat she had fallen into, "It is exactly as you think, dear."

Patrick halted and glared at her.

She asked Patrick, "What? Won't you tell her the truth?"