My father’s voice became grave. Okay, honey, just settle down. Tell me what transpired.
I inhaled deeply once more and described everything, including the practical joke and my ensuing breakdown.
When I finished, my dad listened in silence for a moment before speaking. “Mary, I’m so sorry you’re going through this. I’m on my way.”
There was a lump in my throat. “Dad, sometimes I feel trapped in a never-ending cycle of fear and anxiety.”
My dad’s voice softened. “You’re not alone, Mary. You’re strong, and you can get through this. We’ll figure it out together.”
I recognized the sound of Dad’s car coming up outside ten minutes later.
With a stern attitude, my dad entered through the open door. “Mary, please. We’re heading out.”
I gathered my belongings and nodded. Daniel was still sitting on the couch, his attitude smug and indifferent. His companions had caused so much mayhem that they had long ago moved on. Ignoring him, I concentrated on packing my belongings.
I saw the way my dad’s gaze pierced Daniel’s as we left the apartment.
“You’re lucky I didn’t lose it on you right now, buddy,” he muttered under his breath.
