“That is precisely why we’re here to protect her,” Bridget responded without hesitation.

Bonnie leaned in close to Sawyer, her voice dripping with venom. “Don’t you dare destroy your marriage over a childish tantrum,” she hissed. “Kids forget things quickly, but public scandals follow families forever.”

Sawyer felt a wave of repulsion wash over him—and just then, his phone vibrated in his pocket.

It was a text from their neighbor, Mrs. Kennedy.

Sawyer, I’m so sorry to interfere, but I have a security camera pointed at your front door. I heard Gracie screaming yesterday, and I watched Carolina walk out of the house and leave that little girl completely alone for three hours.

If you need the footage, it’s all stored on my drive.