Free Cache a Predator by Michelle Weidenbenner Page A

office. The one that tugged at her heartstrings. He didn’t look the type to have anger issues either.
    Typically, Sarah was good at staying neutral, but this was difficult. She wanted to believe that Brett was a monster, especially after reviewing his case and learning of the protective order. Her first impression was not what she expected. She almost felt sorry for him, especially when she saw the garbage lined along the wall and smelled the filth. She couldn’t imagine raising a child in that environment. What kind of mother was Ali that she would flee even though she knew they were coming? Probably a mother who had something to hide.
    When Sarah had seen the deep scratches on Brett’s arm she’d almost gasped, remembering another time when she’d been the one who had inflicted similar scratches on someone in her life. When tears had welled in Brett’s eyes, she believed his story was different from hers, but how well did she really know him?
    As they stood in the entryway, Brett said, “So, you’ve seen Quinn? How is she?”
    Sarah exchanged a glance with Peggy. “She’s doing well considering the circumstances. I’m sure you’ll get to see her after we finish the assessment.”
    “Really?” He sighed like he was genuinely relieved. “Thank you. Where is she now?”
    Peggy took a few steps into the living room, surveying the home, then moved on to the kitchen.
    Sarah stayed in the entryway, facing Brett. “She’s in a room at the sheriff’s office. It’s where we hold children until we assess their situation. The room is equipped with a TV, a DVD player, and a staff that will spoil her.” She smiled, trying to help him relax.
    “I’m familiar with that room. Has she asked for this?” He held up the lamb. “She never goes anywhere without it.”
    Sarah shook her head. “She’s mostly concerned about her dog.”
    “I’ve got a unit out looking for him.” He paused and nodded toward the other room. “Can I get you something to drink? Make a pot of coffee?”
    Peggy, who had returned to them, said, “No, we don’t have time. For now, we need to ask a few questions, search the home, and present you with a few documents.”
    Brett rubbed his eyes. “Of course, sure.” He led them into the kitchen and pulled out two chairs, brushing the crumbs off the seats. “I’m sorry for the mess. Clutter is invisible to Ali.” He closed his computer and moved it out of the way before he sat across from the women.
    Peggy set her briefcase on the floor, opened it, then brought out a file. “Where do you live?”
    “In a one-room apartment across town.” He gave her the address. “After I divorced Ali and lost the custody battle, I wanted to keep Quinn in familiar surroundings, so as not to upset her world too much. So I moved out and let Ali keep this place. All I could afford was a one-room apartment.”
    Peggy scribbled notes on her clipboard.
    He said, “Look, this has all been a terrible misunderstanding. Quinn can live with me. She doesn’t need to go anywhere else.” He exhaled loudly. “Ali hasn’t been well for a while, but the courts decided to grant her custody because mothers always get the children. I tried to fight them, to explain her emotional issues, but she lies well. They believed her. And she stayed sober long enough to pass a drug test.”
    Peggy said, “We’ve talked to Mrs. Finkle, the neighbor who brought her in, and have Quinn’s file here.” She motioned toward her briefcase. “According to the divorce transcripts, her doctor said she was taking her meds for depression, holding a job, functioning well. Has that changed?”
    “Yes, I think she lost her job, and this morning she had booze on her breath.”
    Sarah interrupted. “If you were here this morning and saw the shape she was in, why did you leave Quinn in her care?”
    Brett’s face turned red. He cleared his throat. “What was I supposed to do?” His eyes pierced through her. “I’m not allowed to take