Page 39 of Finding Molly Parsons

“Was it Faith’s dad?”

“A Mr. Alan Parsons. Yes, it was him.”

“Shit.”

“Listen, I convinced him we would haul him off to jail if he returned, but Carmen. I know men like that. He’s not going to give up.”

“I need to speak to Faith. She should decide what to do next.”

“Okay. I take it that things didn’t go to plan in Vermont?”

“Not quite, but we are traveling to Phoenix next. I’ll feel better about all this business with her dad once Faith has found Molly. At least her aunt might know how to deal with him.”

“Alright, keep me updated. I’ll make sure nothing and no one messes with your house.”

“Thanks Rachel, we appreciate it.”

“Take care.”

The phone line went silent, unlike Carmen’s racing mind. Goddamn it, she knew the son of a bitch would turn up. What she didn’t know was how protective she would feel about Faith when it happened. It was a good thing they weren’t home because God only knows what Carmen would’ve said or done if she’d had to face him. The mother as well.

“Mateo?” Carmen called. Pacing her bedroom, Carmen could feel herself getting more and more irate. Who did that fucker think he was? Turning up to what? Drag Faith back to the prison he called home? Force her to marry some man?

“Whoa, you look like you’re about to explode. What’s wrong?” Mateo closed the bedroom door. His body clad in his favorite pink robe. The smell of vanilla and pears permeated the air.

“Faith’s parents were here.” Carmen’s voice quivered with rage.

“Shit,” Mateo hissed. “How do you know?”

“Rachel.”

“Does she think he will come back?”

“Possibly, but not right now. I think she scared him enough that he won’t push it.”

“Does Faith know?”

“Nope, I wanted to tell you first. I’m so fucking angry, Hermano. That asshole was here to take her.”

“I know. I understand your anger, but you need to dial it down. Faith needs us to be calm.”

“That’s why I called you in here first.”

Mateo stood and made his way to Carmen, blocking her path. With both hands firmly on her shoulders, he ducked to look into her eyes. “Deep breaths, Hermana. Center yourself.”

“Okay, I’m okay.” Carmen nodded. “I’m good, thanks Mateo.”

“Let’s call her in and tell her together. I’m already packed to travel to Phoenix, and so is Enid.”

“Is the boutique covered?”

“Of course. It’s in expert hands. I just want to focus on Faith right now.”

Pulling Mateo into her body, Carmen held him for a few moments. “Te amo.”

“Yo también.”

“Carmen, have you seen my… oh sorry,” Faith said, pausing in the doorway. Neither Mateo nor Carmen had heard it open.

---