“She’s telling lies, Marcus!” Lydia wailed from the couch. “She stole my journal and faked emails! They’re trying to take the kids away!”

Marcus stepped into the room, pointing a thick, calloused finger at me. “I am sick and tired of your drama, girl. You pack your bag and you get in the truck right now.

We’re going home, and you’re going to clean that kitchen until it shines.”

He reached for my arm. Officer Davis stepped squarely between us, her hand resting on the butt of her sidearm.

“Sir, step back,” she commanded. “Nobody is leaving this house. Your wife is currently under investigation for child endangerment, forging evidence, and filing a false police report.”

Marcus halted, his hand suspended in mid-air. The scowl melted into confusion. “Endangerment? What are you talking about?”