HIS NEIGHBOR WOULDN’T STOP REPORTING THE SOUND OF A GIRL CRYING INSIDE HIS HOUSE—THEN HE HID BENEATH HIS DAUGHTER’S BED AND HEARD HER PLEAD FOR SOMEONE TO SPARE HER

Thomas sat beside Lucia, one hand visible on the table. He did not touch her unless she reached for him.

Veronica arrived ten minutes late.

She walked in wearing a cream blouse and a wounded expression. “I’m sorry. I came as soon as I could. Lucia has been going through a very difficult emotional phase.”

Thomas looked at Denise.