Chapter 2 - The Blue Sleeve
A heavy leather shoe struck the hardwood threshold of the kitchen door.
THUD.
Mark crossed the grey-tiled hallway in two long, terrifying strides.
His dark blue suit jacket whipped open, revealing the crisp line of his blue tie and gold tie-bar.
His left hand shot forward, his fingers locking around Vanessa’s beige satin forearm like a steel clamp.
"Get off her!"
The force of his pull tore Vanessa’s hand completely away from the child's sequined dress.
Vanessa stumbled three steps sideways, her black trousers sweeping against the grey lower cabinets.
Her beige satin blouse rustled as she caught her balance against the edge of the refrigerator.
Mark didn't give her a second look.
He dropped his six-foot frame instantly to his knees on the cold marble floor.
His dark blue wool trousers pressed into the dust and crumbs near the island.
He reached out, his massive arms sweeping under Lily’s small thighs and back.
May you like
He scooped the trembling girl up into his chest, rising in one fluid, explosive motion.
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