I think I know what's bothering her. "This is about what Carol said," I say, taking her hand. When she looks down at our hands, I lift her chin to meet my eyes. "Ava, that bastard won't get anywhere near you or Sophia. I promise."

She studies my face. "Jason will come for me. I don't want anything to happen to Sophia," she says, looking back at her daughter. "Leo, promise me something," she whispers, turning back to me. She touches my cheek, and I lean into her hand. "Promise ...