She shook her head bitterly. No, what you really needed was a separate life, far away from the daughter who reminded you so much of the girl youd lostthe girl who really mattered to you.

Dad closed his eyes, his jaw flexing. A younger Harley would have walked away, but she was tired of being iced out, tired of being shut down, tired of being silent.

Her voice took on a note of pleading. You left us to figure it out on our own, Dad. We were just kids. And youre still doing thatpretending it never happened, pretending that if we just avoid mentioning her name

Enough! her father roared, his eyes flashing as his hands gripped the arms of the chair like claws. I was her father! I was supposed to protect her, and youve never forgiven me for that! You never let it go!

The old mans rage washed over Harley, yet for the first time it didnt seem to be directed at her, not truly. All this time youve held it against yourself, she murmured softly. All these years youve carried the guilt…

She had never before considered the responsibility he might feel for what happened. She felt suddenly ashamed for all the times she had brought up his mistakes, called into question his merits as a father. He had failed her in many ways, certainly, but he was still a widower grieving the losses of his wife and daughter. Who wouldnt struggle as a parent under the weight of such grief and guilt?

Im so sorry, Dad, she said, tentatively touching his hand. When he did not pull away, she began to rub his arm, soothing him, assuring him she understood.

You did the best you could, she said gently. You provided for us. You made sure we stayed in school. All things considered, Id say we turned out alright.

My daughter, scourge of serial killers. His voice was hard, but when his eyes flicked to hers, there was a hint of gratitude in them.

Then, with what seemed to be a great effort, he took her hand in his. Harley couldnt remember the last time he had done so.

You went away because of me, didnt you? he said, looking into Harleys eyes. Then he nodded, as if her eyes had confirmed what he suspected. I understand now.

You do? Harley whispered, overcome with guilt and hope.

He nodded again. I was too wrapped up in grief to see it at the time, but now… He paused. You were a carefree girl before we lost Kelly. Then, after she disappeared, it seemed like you were always restless. I thought it was just you developing your own wings, becoming your own person. But now I see you had to do that to survivebecause I wasnt there for you.

He swallowed hard. Im sorry, sweetheart. I should have been there for you. I should never have shut you out the way I did.