Nathan climbed in.
The drive to the house took only minutes, but every turn felt too slow. Marcus sat beside him, reviewing the information already gathered. The attorney had confirmed the custody documents were current. The police had been contacted. A child-protection intake had been started. Nothing was being left to a single person’s word.
Nathan listened without interrupting.
Then his phone buzzed.
Mrs. Alvarez.
He answered immediately.
“Nathan?”
Her voice was shaking.
“I’m here.”
“I can see the upstairs light. Lily is at the window.”
Nathan looked toward the dark road ahead.
“Thank you. Stay where you are.”
“I will.”
The call ended.
Nathan slipped the phone into his pocket.
Marcus glanced at him.
“You good?”
Nathan took one breath.
“No. But I’m focused.”
That was the only answer he gave.
When the SUV turned onto Nathan’s street, the house came into view.
The driveway was still wet.
