Page 87 of Defiled Innocence

“He’s really gone, huh?” she questions about Christian.

“Yeah.” I sigh. “It’s for the best.” And his safety.

“I can’t believe he was taking money from the foundation. I mean he always had a little creepy vibe to him, but I just chalked it up to him being a frat guy who never outgrew being in a frat.”

I turn to her, a smile genuinely touching my lips. “You know, that’s exactly what he was like.”

I look back down at my phone, at the small olive branch Dmitri offers.

“I hope he gets help,” she continues. “You know, maybe we should think of adding a gambling addiction group session.”

I look up from the message. “That’s a good idea.”

It won’t help Christian now. Even if he got the help he needs, Dmitri would sooner rip off his head than let him anywhere near the city again.

It was only for me that he let him leave New York in one piece.

“Sarah? I have everything ready, if you’ll just come sign.” The building manager waves at Sarah.

“I’ll be right back.”

“Take your time.” I lean back in the chair, glancing once more at the message my husband sent.

After another moment, I send a simple message back.

No, thanks.

Amelia

“Lia, the plumbers are here to inspect the pipes?” Sarah peeks her head into my office.

I wave a hand.

“Can you bring them downstairs? They are going to do a full inspection to see if we have any other weak spots to worry about.”

“Yeah. Sure.” She pauses. “Lia. Maybe you should take the day off. You’ve been staring at that contract for an hour.”

I blink a few times until my vision focuses on my computer screen again. She’s right. I haven’t even gotten through the first paragraph yet.

“I’m fine,” I sigh and turn away from the computer. “I just need some coffee.”

She shakes her head with the same concerned expression she’s had all week.

“Okay.” It’s not a convincing tone, but she doesn’t say anything else before leaving me alone in my office.

Alone.

That’s exactly what I am now.

Completely alone.

It’s been ten days since I found out what a monster my father really was. And nine days since Dmitri has tried to get me to talk to him.

He’s given me exactly what I said I wanted. He’s left me alone.

The bastard.

“Lia. Sorry to bug you, but the school just called. Tony’s sick and I need to go get him. I called Ramon. He’s on his way in to handle my appointments today.” Susan, one of our counselors, frowns.

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