“He’s not a d**g addict.”
“How do you know?”
“I just know.”
“So, he’s batshit crazy then.”
“No.”
“Gambling debt?”
“I don’t think so.”
“A d**g dealer? A washed-up boxer? Is he stupid? Does he even know how to read?”
“That is enough, Stefani.”
“But—”
“Enough!” Vivian’s voice had taken on a tone I had not heard from her before, one used to being obeyed. My beast preened at the sound of her anger, eager to tangle with her. Dominate her. Transform her anger with pleasure.
“Mom, this is crazy. Come on.”
I had heard enough as well. I stood—slowly, so as not so scare Adrian—and cleared my throat. I spoke loudly, made sure my voice would carry. “You will not speak to your mother with such disrespect, Stefani. You are a child. Your mother is a mature female who has taken care of you and
