Allie shuddered and wrapped her arms around herself. She wondered desperately where her mother was and what she was doing. A wave of longing assailed her. Just as Allie knew her mom was tucked away somewhere, she knew without a doubt that she was safe. Jay would ensure it. He would never let anything bad happen to Allie or Veronica. Or at least he would do everything in his power to ensure nothing ever happened to either of them.

The mother made it easier than the daughter. ...