That sounded like Dad.
Stubborn.
Terrified.
But stubborn.
“We meet with an attorney tomorrow morning.”
The recording became quieter.
“If anything happens before then, everything we’ve found is copied in a folder called Lily House. Daniel Mercer knows how to access it.”
I looked at Mercer.
He turned.
His face was pale.
Mom continued.
“And Michael?”
My throat closed.
“You are not required to become Vicky’s parent.”
I shook my head instinctively.
“You are her brother.”
Tears slipped down my face.
“Whatever happens, love her as her brother. Don’t bury your entire life because you think that’s what we would have wanted.”
I could barely breathe.
“We wanted a life for both of you.”
Then she laughed softly.
“And tell Vicky I still think dinosaurs are better than unicorns, no matter what she says.”
I started laughing and crying at the same time.
The recording ended.
For a long time, neither Mercer nor I spoke.
