The Arrest
Rodriguez’s phone rang.
“We found them,” she said. “Moonlight Motel off Route 60.”
When Dale and Karen entered the station, Dale looked furious and bewildered.
“Verona, what’s going on? Why is Quinton here? They’re saying crazy things!”
“Stop,” I said. “We saw everything.”
Karen crossed her arms.
“We just went out after Quinton went to bed. That’s not a crime.”
Rodriguez stepped forward.
“Mr. Hayworth, you’re under arrest for child endangerment. Ms. Martinez, you’re being charged as an accomplice.”
When the footage played, Dale’s face went pale.
“It’s not what it looks like! I thought he’d stay in the backyard!”
“For two hours? In the dark? While you were in my room with your sister?” I cried.
“She’s not my sister,” Dale blurted.
Karen hissed, “Dale, stop talking.”
“Explain,” Rodriguez demanded.
Dale swallowed hard.
“Karen’s my father’s stepdaughter. We’re not related by blood.”
I froze.
“You told me she was your sister. For fifteen years!”
“It was easier that way,” Karen said coldly.
“So this whole thing—how long?” I whispered.
Dale stared at the floor.
“Since her mother passed away. She said she still loved me.”
“And Quinton?” I said, tears falling. “He was just part of your plan?”
“I never wanted him to get hurt,” Dale murmured.
“He’s eight years old! You locked him out in the dark!”
As they led Dale and Karen away, Rodriguez turned to me.
“He won’t make bail tonight,” she said softly. “He’ll face the judge in the morning.”
“Good,” I said. “Let him spend one night wondering if his child is safe.”
