And so he swallowed his rage, every day, for weeks, and did everything correctly, because the boring, patient, lawful path was the only one that led to a place where his daughter would never have to fight this battle again.

The satisfying explosion would have felt better for an afternoon.

The quiet, meticulous, lawful campaign kept her safe for the rest of her life.

He chose his daughter’s safety over his own catharsis, every single time, and it is the choice he is proudest of.

Chapter 10 — Two More Episodes

There was a second file.

In it, Lily was pacing around the living room, agitated and distressed, and Sarah was following her with a phone held up, filming.

“Come on, Lily,” Sarah’s voice said, pleasant and coaxing.