CHAPTER 9
The footage was worse than Michael expected.
Not because it was loud.
Because it was calm.
Vanessa sliding the chair away when Lily tried to sit.
Vanessa placing the silver dog bowl on the floor.
Vanessa saying, “If you want to act like a helpless little animal, eat like one.”
Lily crying silently.
Vanessa grabbing her arm when she tried to stand.
The chair tipping.
Lily slipping.
Her forehead hitting the cabinet edge.
Michael had to turn away for one second because the sound that came out of him did not feel human.
Lily reached for him.
He immediately went back to her.
“I’m here,” he whispered. “I’m right here.”
Daniel stopped the footage.
Vanessa stood frozen by the island, all her excuses dead on the marble floor.
Michael looked at her.
“You are leaving this house tonight.”
Vanessa’s voice shook.
“You can’t just throw me out.”
May you like
Michael held Lily closer.
“I can. And I am.”
