Page 120 of Primal God

“You’re not helping.”

“I promise you and the baby will be safe at the house.”

She nods. “Okay.”

“Okay,” I echo in agreement.

We finally arrive at the house, and I spot Ms. Odell’s SUV parked out front. I park next to her and get out, opening Lilith’s door before getting Raquel.

As we walk, Lilith asks, “What are we going to say to them?”

“We’ll tell them the truth. That this is your daughter, and she’s come to stay with us since your arm is hurt.”

Inside the house, I call Ms. Odell, Clara, and Diego.

Clara stops when she sees me holding Raquel.

“Why is the baby from Isadora’s playdates here?”

I turn to Lilith, whose cheeks are bright red.

She says in a low tone, “I had to find creative ways to see her.”

“Very clever,minha vida.” To Clara, I say, “This is Raquel. She’s Lilith’s little girl, and she’s coming to stay with us.”

Clara moves closer. “She looks like Isadora.”

“That she does.”

Clara turns to Diego, who just entered, and says, “You’re right. Nanny W has a baby!”

Ms. Odell touches Lilith’s arm. “She’s beautiful.”

“Thank you,” Lilith answers.

I say, “Ms. Odell, can you get Raquel settled in the nursery with Isadora? Her crib will arrive soon.” To Lilith, I say, “I’m going to take a call in my study.”

She grabs my hand. “Be safe.”

“I will.”

I leave as my family makes their way upstairs and I go to my office, closing the door behind me. It’s been nearly an hour, which means I’ll be receiving a message from the killer any moment now.

My phone rings, and I see Brooks’ name on the screen.

“Hello?”

“Ace said you got a letter. Are you home?”

“I am.”

“I’m on my way.”

“I’m in the study.”

“See you in a few.”

Ten minutes later, Brooks walks in just as my email pings on my phone. I open it on my computer so Brooks can see. There are a few attachments within the email. One has several photos of João and his girlfriend, Eve. There’s a schedule listed for the next day and the dinner time slot is circled.

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