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I flinch.

He doesn't seem to notice.

“Doesn't change why you're here.”

I stare at him.

“You're still going to use me to get to Torch?”

“I need what Chavez has.”

“And if he doesn't give it to you?”

He doesn't answer.

He doesn't have to.

For twenty-two years, I've wondered about this man.

Now I know everything I need to.

Mom loved me. She raised me, protected me, and never once made me question whether I mattered.

This man doesn't even care that I'm his daughter.

“You don't deserve to be called my father,” I tell him.

His expression hardens.

“Good. We understand each other.”

He turns away and sends the video.

I don't know how much time passes before his phone rings.

He answers immediately.

“Chavez.”

My heart leaps.

My father listens, then glances at me.

“Yeah, she's fine. And she'll stay that way if you cooperate.”

A pause.

“Come to the warehouse alone. Bring everything. I'll send you the location.”

He ends the call.

I watch him tuck the phone away.

“You're going to let him walk in here?”

“He wants you back, doesn't he?”

“And when you have the evidence?”