“They preached that?” Farrah asked. “Have nothing to do with anyone who didn’t agree?”

Mercy nodded. “Every Sunday. And Monday and all the days that ended in ‘y.’ Paranoia was like mother’s milk. At least in Eden.”

Amos looked uncomfortable. “In Eden and in the L.A. church. And in some ways, I have to agree with that teaching. I’ve seen a lot today that I never, ever thought I’d see.”

“Zoya showed him some television,” Irina said.

Amos shook his head. “I’m still . . . well, it’s a very different world than the one I left.”

“What will you do next, Amos?” Mercy asked, seeming to need to change the subject. “How can we help you settle in?”

“I have no idea,” Amos confessed. “I need a job. I need a place to live. A school for Abigail. We need documents. Abigail doesn’t even have a birth certificate. It’s . . .” He trailed off helplessly.

“Overwhelming, Papa?” Abigail chirped, cake all over her mouth.

“Exactly that.” Amos wiped her mouth with a napkin. “This much to do”—he stretched his arms wide—“and this much time to do it.” He closed his arms around her, wrapping her in a hug.

“But you don’t need to figure it out tonight,” Irina said firmly. “We’ve all had a long day and I’m declaring it time to rest. Daisy and I have filled boxes for each of you. Take this food home and eat it. I texted Damien and asked him to follow you home, so I know you’re safe.”

“Molina left us an escort,” Rafe said. “Damien doesn’t need to come.” Although he’d feel more comfortable with his brother in the house with them. One more trained cop could only be a good thing.

“As I said,” Irina said with a raised brow, “Damien will be escorting you home. He just texted that he’s here. Call me when you’re safely inside your house.” She aimed looks at Daisy, Mercy, and Farrah. “All of you. The boys always forget.”

Damien came into the kitchen and gave Irina a hug. “Got your text, Mom. I’m good to follow them home.”

Rafe got up, leaning heavily on his cane. He didn’t want to admit it, but he was exhausted. He couldn’t imagine how tired Mercy must be. This day had been a goddamn roller coaster. “Thanks, brother. I’ll owe you one.”

Farrah hesitated, then kissed Irina on the cheek. “I’m going to have to say goodbye to you all for now. My parents texted earlier. The ME released my aunt’s body this afternoon. We’re going to have her funeral day after tomorrow and I need to be home for my folks.”

Mercy looked torn. “I need to be there with you, but if I go, I’ll put everyone in your family at risk.”

“They know that,” Farrah said, cupping Mercy’s cheek. “And we all know that you’d be there if you could. André and I will fly out first thing tomorrow morning. If you still need me, I can be back by the weekend.”