Page 140 of Clinically Delicious
“In forty minutes?”
“In thirty-eight minutes now, yes.”
“That’s not enough time. We need—I need to—” She was spiraling, her breath coming too fast. “What if they see the glitter? What if they think the house is unstable? What if they decide Megan would be better off with Tonya because at least Tonya doesn’t turn dining rooms into camping sites?”
“Then we’ll explain that you were keeping Megan entertained indoors because you were concerned about the surveillance. That you were being a good mother.”
“I’m not her mother.”
“You are.” My words came out fierce. “In every way that matters, you are. And any social worker with half a brain is going to see that.”
She stared at me, eyes wide and terrified.
“Gabriel.”
“I need you to get yourself and Megan ready. Something presentable but comfortable. Make it look like you were just having a normal day at home. Can you do that?”
She nodded, still shaking.
“And, Cate?” I cupped her face, making sure she was looking at me. “We’re going to get through this. Together. I promise.”
“You can’t promise that.”
“I can. And I am.” I kissed her forehead. “Now go. Get ready. I’ll handle everything else.”
She took a shaky breath, then nodded again and disappeared back into Megan’s room.
I stood there for a moment, listening to her explain to Megan that they needed to change clothes for a “special visitor,” keeping her voice light and cheerful despite the panic I knew was coursing through her.
Then I went downstairs to help my colleagues save my family.
Thirty-six minutes.
We could do this.
We had to.
