Penelope’s phone rang and she checked the display. She didn’t recognise the number. “Hello?”
“What is wrong?” Luca demanded.
“Nothing.”
“Your joy became that fierce protective feeling. What is wrong?”
“I can’t give him up. He came back to me.”
“The dog.”
“Rusty.”
“You named him.”
“Yes.” When he remained silent, she asked. “Are you okay?”
“The demons are following me. Chad wants to be prepared for whatever choice you make.”
“I’m not going to change my mind. He can’t have you. I’m setting you free.” When he laughed, she asked, “What’s so funny?”
“That was the same feeling you had when you wanted to keep Rusty.”
She had no idea what to say. Knowing there was no one who could see her, she gave into the urge to twist a strand of hair between her fingers.
“What is wrong? You’re unc
