Page 74 of Jael

“The bruises were pretty telling. And I’m organizing for the daughter to see a psychologist because I have a suspicion that she was being abused in other ways.”

“I’d like to approve the psychologist you use.”

“Why?” Jael braced herself against the wall. She should have told him to call back later. She wasn’t prepared to handle this right now. Not with the remnants of the sleeping pills fogging her mind.

“Because I don’t want some quack influencing what the daughter remembers.”

“I don’t follow.”

“If the psychologist you choose wants the husband to be guilty, she’ll make sure of it.”

“Are you saying I’d choose someone who would put ideas in the girl’s head?”

“It’s happened before.”

“I only want the truth.”

“I know you do, but I also believe you’ve made up your mind.”

“That doesn’t matter. This will all go to court. My purpose in this is to protect the victim.”

“What if the victim is the husband?”

“If he’s innocent, the court will see that.”

“They don’t always get it right,” Christopher said.

“What exactly are you saying?”

“There’s no need to get defensive. We’re on the same side here. We both want what’s best, right? Don’t you want to do whatever it takes to make sure justice is done?”

“Of course I do.”

“Good. The earlier you can send that file through, the better.”

“I’m sorry, but I can’t give it to you.”

“Then I won’t approve the payment for the house.”

“Why are you doing this?” Her voice shook.

“I’m sorry.” His voice softened. “I should have seen it. I came at this from the wrong angle. I didn’t realize how emotionally attached you were to Becca. You can’t be impartial, and that’s okay. You can leave that to me. I don’t mean to add more pressure to your life right now.”

“You can help by paying for the house. We have plenty of time to sort out the rest later. If you want regular updates on how the case is progressing, I’m more than happy to do that minus the confidential information. My dad never wanted to hear about it, so I’m used to keeping it to myself, but that doesn’t mean that’s how we have to move forward.”

“I’m glad to hear that. But you should know that I expect you to show me the respect I deserve. It’s the foundation of any good marriage.”

“We’re not even engaged yet.”

“Are you worried I’ve skipped over a romantic proposal?” She could hear the smirk in his voice. “Don’t worry. I’ve got something special planned. But I wanted to give you the space you needed after the funeral.”

“I don’t need a romantic proposal. In fact, I wouldn’t like one.”

“Then I’ll keep it simple.”

“I’ve got to get going. I’m way behind, and I haven’t even had a shower.”

“That’s fine, just make sure you get me that file.”

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