“Silas survived,” I say. “He’s in custody. This time… it’s different.”
“How?”
“His parents bailed him out before,” I continue. “Paid, buried, and redirected the story. But this is his second offense. A documented pattern. He crossed from ‘troubled’ into ‘dangerous.’”
“And no one’s cleaning that up for him?”
“No,” I say firmly. “Not anymore. There’s too much paper. Too many witnesses. And no one is willing to lie for him this time.”
He nods once, satisfied. “Good. But our family has money. So if his family wants a fight, I’ll give it to them.”
I nod. “As will I.”
Her dad nods, then turns his attention to Drew. “Will you be charged?”
Drew stiffens.
“No charges,” I say before he can speak. “Clear self-defense. He fired to stop imminent harm. Two officers, a DA, and a paramedic all agreed.”
Drew finally speaks. “I didn’t think. I just?—”
“You saved my daughter,” Ivy’s dad says.
Drew swallows hard. “Thank you.” He shifts in his chair. “I’ve grown fond of your daughter. And I love my big brother.”
We share a look. The bond between us is stronger than it’s ever been.
Upstairs, a floorboard creaks. Our eyes go to the ceiling. Mr. Pickles lets out a warning chirp from the floor, staring at Ivy’s dad.
I stand. “She’s awake.”
“I want to see her,” her dad says immediately.
“I know.”
We move together.
Ivy stands at the top of the stairs. Her hair is a mess, eyes still heavy with sleep.
“What are you doing out of bed?” I’m already taking the steps two at a time. “You’re supposed to be resting. No stairs, Ivy.”
“But—”
Ivy’s dad’s footsteps trail behind me as I lift her in my arms and carry her to my bedroom.
“Hi, sweetheart.”
Mr. Pickles hisses from behind him.
“Hi, Dad.”
“Please call off your attack cat. He’s preventing me from seeing you.”
She giggles as I set her on the bed. Mr. Pickles jumps up and sits on her legs, glaring at her father like he owes him money.
Her dad freezes in the doorway.
“Come in, Dad.” Ivy’s hand rubs over the cat’s head. He purrs and leans into her touch, but his wary eyes are still on her father.
