Chapter 82

He stepped back and studied her, then rubbed his thumb against her cheek. “My beautiful baby girl. What did he do to you?” he asked.

She covered her hand with his. “Not so much as you would think,” she replied.

“But what he did to you. I can’t believe that he kidnapped you. Yet it’s all true. He is in jail, you know. As are the people who worked for him.”

Kimberly led the way to the sofa and sat next to her father. “It’s a lot to take in,” she said.

“Too much. He fooled us all.” His mouth twisted. “I’m so sorry you tried to explain to me on the phone and I wasn’t listening.” He pulled her close. “I will never forgive myself for that.”

“You can’t blame yourself, dad,” Kimberly said. “He was your close friend, for God knows how long. I understand if you couldn’t believe it at first.”

Her father grimaced. “That’s still not enough reason. I just hope you know just how sorry I am and how happy I am that you are safe. Thanks to Asher Adams and his team.