Alecia’s face shifted the second the name left Val’s mouth. 

A hot wave of anger seeping into her chest.

She pushed her plate aside, the half-eaten pizza slice hanging crooked on the edge, and hissed, “I don’t want to discuss anything concerning that man. He should stay in the hospital forever.”

Val leaned forward, eyebrows raised. “Hospital? Whatever took him there, he’s out now. Discharged. He showed up in front of me this morning. At first, I ...