I watched them leave the complex, relief washing over me. But the moment I turned back toward the house, my blood ran cold.
The red horse mascot costume was there. Again.
Panic clawed at my throat. I scanned the yard. All the relatives' children were present—not one missing.
So who the hell is inside that suit?
——
The figure stumbled forward, gait unsteady. A muffled voice called out from inside.
"Dad."
I whipped around. Derek stood smoking with several male relatives, laughing.
I swept the yard again. Diana Lawson's son was building a snowman. Aunt Brenda's twins were locked in a snowball fight. The other children played in clusters. Every single one accounted for.
Could Ethan have secretly run back?
The thought hit me like a blow. My blood turned to ice.
No. It can't be.
I muttered the denial, hands shaking as I reached for my phone. I had to call my mother. Had to confirm—
A hand snatched the phone from my grip.
"All the guests have arrived. Why are you spacing out?" Derek had appeared without a sound, eyes cold, tone demanding. "Go greet them. And check the soup in the kitchen."