Chapter 7

Two weeks later...

I was finally adjusting to my new job and avoiding Andrew at all costs. I noticed that he was mostly home in the morning when I arrived, then he'd leave but would usually return around mid-day. I made a point of avoiding the kitchen and upstairs when I arrived at the house because he was almost certainly there. When he returned home, I would take Dalia for walks or take her into the garden.

Dalia's mother never allowed her to leave the grounds unless she was accompanied by her. I found it odd but did not feel compelled to inquire as to why. I simply took note of it and moved on.

Dalia's favorite food was Mac and Cheese; she tolerated Kraft but preferred homemade. Her favorite animal was dolphins, and her favorite color was green.

She was one of the brightest and most well-mannered kids I'd ever met. I had no experience with children, but I knew that younger children were usually difficult, but she was never. I'd never see