“It was just a moment of frustration,” she added. “Even good mothers lose patience.”
Victor pulled his phone from his pocket.
“You’re right about one thing,” he said.
“I’m not home much.”
He opened an app on the screen.
“That’s why I installed security cameras around the house last month. Chloe had been having nightmares.”
Natalie’s face went pale.
She lunged forward to grab the phone, but Victor stepped back.
“I didn’t just see what happened tonight,” he continued, his voice trembling with controlled anger. “I saw weeks of it.”
“You didn’t just hurt her. You made her believe she deserved it… and that I was the one she should fear.”
At that moment flashing red and blue lights illuminated the windows.
Victor had already contacted the authorities after seeing the camera alert earlier while still at the airport.
“It’s not Chloe who’s disappearing tonight,” he said quietly as loud knocks echoed at the door.
“It’s you.”
The pounding filled the house.
Natalie stood frozen as if her mind were still trying to invent an excuse fast enough to escape reality.
“Seattle Police Department,” a voice called from outside. “Mr. Hayes, we know you’re inside.”
Victor opened the door.