Then Raymond asked,
“May I see her?”
I turned slightly so he could see Wren.
He studied her face.
His eyes filled.
“She has your mother’s nose.”
No one had said that.
For six days, Beverly had insisted Wren was entirely Tran.
Roland said she looked like his father.
Raymond looked at her and saw my mother.
He returned to the Escalade and installed a brand-new infant seat.
My father had apparently told him to buy one on the way.
I went back into the kitchen and wrote Roland a note.
Roland,
Wren and I are safe.
We’re staying with my family.
When you’re ready to explain why your mother counts as family and we don’t, you can call me.
— Simone
I left the note beneath the kitchen light.
Then I placed my house key on top.
Raymond carried the bags.
He secured Wren in the new car seat.
Checked every strap.
Tucked the yellow blanket around her.
Then he opened the back door for me.
We drove away.
I never looked back.
What I didn’t know was that our driveway camera had already sent Roland an alert.
He was eating dessert at Faye’s house when his phone buzzed.
