LILA,

“Get in the car, Lila. You’re not going inside yet.”

I looked at the phone again.

*hey weird question. my dad just texted asking if you got home okay from work?? I didn’t even know he was giving you rides??*

My pulse was in my throat.

I opened the door and sat.

He took the phone out of my hand before I could type.

“Unlock it.”

I did.

He read the message, thumbs still, then handed it back.

“Tell her I saw you walking and offered because it was late. Tell her I am being a decent father. Then put it away.”

I typed with fingers that felt numb....