LORRAINE'S POV

"At least give me a chance to explain," I read Ryder Sterling's phone message and frown.

How can he explain the brutal beating of a servant? Will he claim to have no control over the choices of his family again?

He may not take part in the cruelty, but he clearly didn't care much either.

I ignore the message and carry my cup of hot coffee to the couch closest to the tv. It's been days since I listened to any news.

I switch on the tv only to be utterly shocked by the first headline, which is also under the tag of Breaking News.

"Tragic Death of...