“Mia,” I said carefully, “is there something you need to tell me?”
She looked toward the door before answering.
“Please don’t make us go swimming with him anymore.”
My stomach tightened.
She explained in broken pieces that Thomas had gradually created rules that made both girls uncomfortable. He insisted on private “special time,” became angry when they refused certain activities, and told them that I would misunderstand if they complained about him.
Mia had begun sleeping in Sophie’s room because she didn’t want her little sister alone at night.
That was why they were suddenly always together.
That was why Sophie wanted the door locked.
And that was why Mia, who had once loved swimming more than anything, had suddenly refused to go.
I felt as though the floor had disappeared beneath me.
But I also knew I couldn’t make the mistake of confronting Thomas alone.
