F O R T Y - S I X

ARABELLA.

My mouth falls open at Veronica’s revelation and I meet Dex’s eyes, who look just as shocked as I am.

"What?" He mutters as he raises to his feet next to her, his gaze moving to her phone. I watch as a muscle in his jaw ticks and anger reflects through his orbs. "That bastard."

"I need to leave." Veronica declares, dropping her hand, and I look between Dex and her before I open my mouth. "Is that safe? I mean–"

"It’s my sister. I don’t care if it’s safe. I need to leave right this moment." She insists, and I stand from my seat. "I know, but to Sam? What if he tries to do something?"

"I do not care."

"I think we should call the cops. That’s literally child abuse. He should be–"

"No," Veronica says, interrupting Dex and he gives me a look before he turns to her. "Veronica, you can’t let him get away with this. He should be punished."

"No, Dex. I know what I’m saying. You do not know these people as I do. I just– I need to see Sam first."

"Then I’ll come with you," Dex