61|Not A Good Man

On the brink of breaking down, Marybeth absently began to tidy up the place, convinced that if she didn't distract herself, she'd fall apart.

Behind her, Scarlett cleared her throat.

"We'd love to stay and help you clean up," she said, pointing at her watch when Marybeth turned around. "But Lewis has an early meeting tomorrow."

"Of course," Marybeth gave her a small smile and placed the ashtray back on the coffee table before walking them out, leaving Austin and his men huddling in the kitchen, speaking in hushed tones.

They lingered in the corridor, with Scarlett dying to share her piece as soon as the front door shut behind them. "You didn't tell me how bad things are!"

"I did," Marybeth insisted. "But you were too concerned with Smith and signing a warning. Do you see now why we have to get Adeline away from here?"

"It's not just her anymore, you know that, right? When the social worker eventually shows up, those three kids will very likely be placed in foster care."

Marybeth was w