LEAH'S POV

　　I took a deep breath.

　　"I need to introduce you to someone," I said to my daughter. "He's a friend of mine, and he's very special. He's going to help keep you safe."

　　My daughter looked up at me, her curiosity piqued. "Really?" she asked. "Who is it?"

　　"His name is Markham," I said. "And he's someone who cares deeply about you. He's someone who will do everything he can to protect you."

　　My daughter's eyes lit up. ...