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Ari stirred the milk, took it off the heat, then added chocolate and marshmallows. She brought it to Bella, who was picking at a hangnail.
“Rita, Grayson, and the kids are all outside. Everyone looks fine.”
Unfortunately,finewas relative. Physically they appeared unharmed, but emotionally was another matter altogether. Just like Bella. Though out of harm’s way, she was clearly suffering.
That was assuming her father had been arrested.
If he was on the loose, they were all in danger.
ChapterEleven
Damon tried to take in everything Grayson told him. The whole story was wild, but at the same time unsurprising. It was easy to fall into routines and pretend like things were normal. To get lulled into a false sense of security. But between his and Ari’s true crime podcast, writing their books, and giving personal safety presentations in person and on television, it was usually enough to keep the grim reality of life close to the surface.
The fact was, life was not safe. Monsters hid behind normal looking faces and false veneers. Some of the most dangerous people were the most outwardly charismatic. They might pretend to be funny or charming or intelligent. It was only those closest to them who saw their true natures.
People like that build a strong network of loyal monkeys ready to do their bidding. If someone spoke out against them, they had an army ready to defend them. People like that isolate the ones they abuse, so it ends up being their word against the lies of the well-loved, popular deceiver.
From the sounds of it, Rita and Bella’s dad was just like his own father. Except hopefully he wasn’t a killer. He hadn’t hurt anyone tonight, aside from giving Grayson a black eye.
But hehadbrought a shotgun to his daughter’s house.
A chill ran down his spine. He would need to make sure that psycho didn’t find Bella.
Part of him wanted to put Diego Fuentes in his place.
That was the part of him he needed to stifle. The part of him he fought and ignored.
Killing people wasn’t a genetic trait, but it may as well be. Damon was all too aware of what anger could lead to, and even if his emotions were normal, there was no way he could entertain them.
He couldn’t risk turning into his father.
So, for his sake and that of those he cared about — mostly Ariana and any future children they would have — he wouldn’t allow himself the luxury of certain emotions. They weren’t safe. He needed to stay on the path he’d chosen all those years ago.
Rita came over and asked Grayson to look at the front door.
Damon pulled her aside. “Is there anything specific you want Ariana and me to do for Bella?”
Her expression clouded over. “Just keep her hidden. I don’t want anyone seeing her in a window or doorway. Our father could still be in the neighborhood somewhere.” She shuddered and looked around. “He could be anywhere, or he could send someone in here to spy. I know it sounds conspiratorial but—”
“It doesn’t. He’s unhinged, and anything is possible. Do you really think he could be wandering around here, unseen? Everyone has doorbell cameras.”
“He’s gotten away with more in the past. Honestly, nothing would surprise me. Do you guys need anything from us to take care of her? I can pay you.”
“No. We’re more than happy to help, Rita. Just take care of your house and the kids. I’ll let Bella know you’re all okay.”
“Thanks. How’s she holding up?”
“She’s in shock, which isn’t surprising. We’ve already got a room set up for her, and hopefully a good night’s sleep will help her feel better. Ari might have a sleep aid if she needs it.”
Rita hugged herself. “If not, let me know. I’m sure I have something.”
He nodded. “How are you doing? The kids?”
“I’m okay. The kids are frightened, but thankfully I don’t think they fully understand the gravity of what happened. They’re already back inside playing video games. I guess kids really are more resilient than adults.”
“Keep an eye on them for the next few days. They could start showing delayed signs of stress or shock too. If you need suggestions for counseling, Ari and I can find you some.”
She gave him a hug, which was awkward with her large belly. “I don’t know how to thank you for everything you two have done for us. Not just now, but all year.”
