Reborn In a Murderer’s Embrace

Chapter 20

Dexter’s brow furrowed in a manner that suggested regret for speaking out of turn. It seemed he feared dragging Melody into a mess. “Sorry, that’s a private issue. It’s not something I can share.”

Robin didn’t push further. A cop came up and whispered something into his ear.

It must’ve been about Dexter’s lawyer arriving.

Reluctantly, Robin allowed Dexter to leave.

Dexter stood up and straightened his suit, the embodiment of composure, as if nothing in the world could ruffle his feathers.

He paused at the door, turning back to look at Robin, “I’ve told you, if you want to crack this serial killer case, stop hounding Phoebe. She’s a clever girl, smarter than you think. She only acted out to force my hand in marriage, but she didn’t mean to throw you off the scent.”

Robin remained silent while Dexter continued.

“She’s willful and I’ll give her that. Once we find her, I’ll make sure she learns her lesson. But any misdirection in your investigation is on Officer Robin, right?” Dexter queried with a loaded

gaze.

Robin tapped his fingers on the desk, still saying nothing.

I couldn’t tell what was going through Robin’s mind, but in that moment, I saw Dexter’s warning for what it was. He was actually threatening a cop.

And I knew Dexter wasn’t doing this for my sake, but for Melody’s. He was worried that Melody would get dragged into this because she was next in line for questioning.

chair, watching Melody

how cold and dark a

personal issue between you

wasn’t born yesterday; he knew how to

up. “She’s a good girl, just a bit headstrong, I’m airaid. I’m sorry for any trouble she’s caused. She’s Dexter’s sister, which makes her mine too. We failed to

almost thought I

could she lie so effortlessly?

You know they’re not blood–related, right?” Robin, sensing Melody’s deflection, reminded her pointedly.

no secret to me. The day Dexter introduced

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Chapter 20

stay away and said if I kept after

clenched in fury and spite, nearly losing control. I had

Melody, my hands aiming for her throat, desperate to

it was

don’t remember exactly when, but Phoebe and I had a falling out as Dexter brought me home. She pushed me down the stairs, and I was hospitalized with serious injuries. I was lucky to survive,”

“Phoebe’s actions could be seen as assault. Why didn’t you call the police?”

she’d be facing jail time. She’s so young; I didn’t want to ruin her life. I wanted

I was struggling and hitting her, but to

that’s what you are! I

thoughtful, his

was terrified that Robin,