Chapter 9

I didn’t go see him. I wanted to. Every single day, I thought about it. But then I remembered how he treated me and Luna. His own daughter. How he favors Evelyn over Luna and even pushes her and blames Luna. I cleaned the house like a robot. Made the bed. Folded his shirts. Cooked dinner even though I didn’t eat it. Then packed some of my things along with Luna. Just the essentials. He didn’t need me now. She made sure I knew. Sent me a picture of her holding his hand, her lips too close to his face. I got the message. Loud and clear. …. I was folding Luna’s clothes when my phone buzzed. Unknown number. I stared at it for a second before picking up. “Hello?” A pause, then a low, hurried voice. “Anna. It’s James. Will’s assistant.” I froze. “How did you—?” “I found your number in the emergency file,” he said quickly. “I had to use a spare phone. If anyone finds out I called you, I’m done.” I moved toward the window, lowering my voice. “Why are you calling me?” “He’s los