10/03/2026 16:58

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I trusted his control, not always his temper, but his control-that I trusted without doubt or reservation. It's your blood, I whispered, and my heart was already beating faster. I didn't take it. That Richard would not hurt me, not in that way, but the fear had a mind of its own.

I shrugged. Nothing good had ever come of my father and Judith waiting up for me. I drew the Browning, but truthfully without a court order of execution, I was in the same boat as a police officer. He moved, but looked puzzled.