Aftermath

Security goes into a frenzy as the girls and I step through the front gates. Mariam and Richard have been alerted via ear bud and the girls are ushered inside, surrounded by guards, while I stay out front to talk to Steve. He notices my wounds but doesn't react since I'm not making a big deal out of them. I tell him how we snuck out much too easily and that he should bulk up near the privacy trees. I also suggest a more advanced camera system for the house and bring up my idea about motion sensors in the backyard. Steve nods along, mumbling his agreement.

"Caaaaas!"

I wince at Mariam's holler and smile gratefully when Steve gives me an apologetic look and hurries away. I steel myself for Mariam's oncoming storm, feeling a burning sensation in my shoulder. My wound must be healing.

"Cas!" Mariam stomps up to me, her eyes on fire. "Are you insane? My God! You snuck out of the house, so stupid. You're job is to keep Emma safe not take her into danger!"

"I know," I mumble.

Mariam breathes