She slides off her chair and comes to me, not questioning why I lift her onto my lap and snuggle her close.
Blade continues, “The police need Simone to come down to the station and ID the guy.”
I bury my face in her hair and inhale deeply. I hate this, but it’s necessary. I bring my mouth back to the phone. “Okay. Let me talk to Simone.”
“I’ll come pick you up so you can ride in the back with her. She might be rattled afterward.”
“Thanks. I really appreciate that. Her sister is staying with us, though. I’ll see if Jameson and Natasha can come over while we’re gone.”
“Good. I’ll see you in a few.”
When Blade disconnects, Simone cups my face. “Did they get him?”
“Yes, Baby girl.” I send a quick text to Jameson.
“Are they sure?” Her lips are trembling.
“Yes, Little one.”
Tears well in her eyes. “He attacked someone else, didn’t he?”
“Yes, baby, but she’s going to survive just like you. She fought back. This time, the police got him.”
“How do they know it’s the same man?”
“His DNA was under her nails, too, my brave girl.” I lift her hand and kiss her fingertips.
Simone sniffles. “Where do we have to go? Why did you say Jameson should come over and be with Lillian?”
I tip her head back and hold her gaze. “You need to identify the guy, Little one. Can you do that? Can you be very brave for a while?”
“Yes, Daddy.” She’s crying silently, but she doesn’t falter. “I can do it. I don’t want him to be able to attack anyone else ever again.”
“That’s my girl.” I kiss her forehead. “Let’s go upstairs and get you changed into something warmer and more adult. It’s cold out.”
I turn to find Lillian wiping her eyes, too. “I’ll be fine here by myself. You don’t have to get anyone to come stay with me.”
“I know, but I’m sure you’re shaken up, too. I bet you’ll be able to pass the time better if Natasha is here with you. You girls can play a game or do a puzzle.”
“Okay. Thank you.”
I stand Simone on her feet and rise. I pause before we leave the room. “I realize I’m incorporating you into our lifestyle. It’s not really appropriate. Please tell me if I’m overstepping.”
Lillian shakes her head. “I’m fine. Thank you. You’re very kind. I can see why my sister loves you so much. I don’t mind hovering on the edges of your world. It’s fascinating.”
I smile at her. My chest tightens at the thought of Simone loving me. I certainly love her. We just haven’t said so out loud yet. “Okay. Let me know if I make you uncomfortable. That will never be my intention.”
I take Simone’s hand and lead her up the stairs and into the closet in our bedroom. “Do you want to wear jeans maybe?”
She shakes her head. “No, Daddy. Can I just add leggings under my dress and then wear a cardigan over the top?”
I pull her into my arms. “If you think you’ll be comfortable like that, yes. Are you sure?”
“Yes, Daddy. No one will think anything of a woman wearing a dress with leggings. Plus, I’ll be more comfortable than in jeans.” She scrunches up her cute nose. “Jeans aren’t really comfortable.”
I tap her nose. “Okay, Little one. Let’s add some layers.”
My heart is throbbing as I help my girl into leggings, socks, and tennis shoes. I grab a white cardigan and help her put it on next. We didn’t have a chance to put her hair up this morning, so it’s still around her shoulders. A quick trip to the bathroom to comb it is all we need and then she’s ready.
