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Family.
That was all that mattered.
Without meaning to, I’d formed one—and been restored with my parents—and I sure wasn’t going to let them go.
Dad strode back into the room. He was older now, but no less confident. We’d had our differences, but I’d always respected him.
Since I was a father myself, I couldn’t be so hard on him anymore. He’d done the best he could. But he was human.
We all made mistakes as people and as parents.
He touched my shoulder. “Forget about that. They’ll charge the real criminal.” He patted me. “And if they don’t, I will.”
“Dad. Thanks.”
“Innocent people deserve to be treated with respect. I put in a call to the chief of police. The detectives will need to speak to you, but not as a suspect.”
Relief rushed through me. My father didn’t make empty promises. Maybe it was wrong to take advantage of avenues most people didn’t have, but I’d take what I could get.
I hadn’t assaulted Alma.
She’dattempted to murder Penelope, JoJo, and me.
If having my father step in on our behalf was what it took to clear our names and see her get justice, fine by me.
“If you want attention, getting shot is a bit dramatic, don’t you think?” Daniel Elliott stepped into the room.
His wife elbowed him in the side. “What he meant to say is how are you and Penelope?”
“She opened her eyes,” I said in a rush. I couldn’t see if she was awake at the moment, but I was so glad to have her back.
Vivian’s gaze darted toward my daughter. “That’s wonderful.”
“Nelope.” Blake pointed at her with a toothy grin.
“I can’t wait to meet her.” Vivian’s smile was bright and genuine. “And here we thought you might want some company.”
“We’re going to need a bigger room.”
Vivian poked her head inside the bedroom, then dragged a chair from there into the main area.
“Thanks for coming by.”
Daniel stood at my bedside.
“He’s been to see you every day. You slept through it all.” JoJo smirked.
My brow furrowed. I’d had him busy trying to locate Alma. How had he made time to visit me?
He stood stoically, neither confirming nor denying JoJo’s statement.
“I knew you loved me.” I grinned, and it hurt.
“You’re going to milk getting shot for all it’s worth,” he groaned.
“He already is,” JoJo muttered.
“Have some soup.” Nancy was already preparing two bowls. “It’s still hot.”
