Bastien
The dial tone drags on and on, and my heart sinks deeper into my stomach with every moment that passes. Pick up, pick up, pick up!
Finally the line clicks open, only it isn’t Selene’s voice which answers. “Mommy’s phone!” Lila chirps happily.
“Lila?” My eyes fall shut as I revel in the sound of her sweet little voice. She’s safe. I tell myself firmly, if nothing else, I know my pup is safe.
“Daddy!” She squeals in excitement. “Is that you?”
“Hello angel.” I greet her warmly.
“Daddy, I miss you so much!” She exclaims.
“I miss you too, little one.” I reply earnestly, wishing I could see her lovely face, but knowing a video call is impossible when my own appearance is so disturbing at the moment. “I desperate
