I meant what I told him. I’m going to talk to Santi. I’ve had plenty of time to think about it over the last week, and it’s going to be hard. Possibly the hardest thing I’ve ever done. I’ll have to own my choices, and I will do it with my head held high. It won’t be a comfortable conversation, given that we’ve only just started to put the past behind us, but I’m in it now, and there’s no getting off this ride. I have to put everyone else’s feelings aside and do what’s best for my children. No matter what.

Later that night, somewhere between darkness and dawn, I manage to get a little more sleep. I only realize it when I’m awakened by the sound of shouting carrying up through my windows. I sit up, straining to hear what’s being said, when I recognize Solana’s voice.

Oh, shit.

I’m moving before I can even think it through. I know this isn’t going to go over well. Not after they realized I was gone from the house without a word. I didn’t even have time to grab the burner phone, so I’m sure they’ve been going out of their minds with worry. That thought is confirmed when I turn the corner into the entryway and see Georgie and Solana at the door, guards at their sides while they argue with Judge.

“You aren’t welcome here,” Judge growls, inches away from Georgie’s face.

They look like they’re about to come to blows, and I don’t like this. I don’t like it at all.

“Stop!” I yell. “Please, stop.”

All three of their gazes whip to me, and Judge shoots me a withering glare so cold, it sucks the breath from my lungs.

“Mercedes.” Solana takes a step forward, only for the guard to grab her by the arm. “Are you okay?”

“Quit manhandling her!” I bellow. “Judge, this is ridiculous. Tell him to let her go. This isn’t necessary.”

“I’m not telling them anything.” His jaw sets, and I could almost swear a look of betrayal flashes through his eyes as he turns away.

I don’t understand it. Is he pissed at me for taking their side?

“Let her come with us freely,” Georgie says, the ire in his voice unmistakable. “Or so help me God, I will make so much noise about this fucking Society of yours you’ll wish you’d put a bullet in my head.”

“That can be arranged,” Judge answers darkly.

“Enough!” I yell at all of them. “Please don’t do this.”