MARISSA
"Baby, I don't—." A faint bark interrupted. She watched Dane cock his head as if listening. He looked at her, amazed. "You're right."
Paramedics arrived and Marissa stepped away to give them room. "I'm going to find Tuesday and DJ. I'll be back."
"No! Let the police go through the house. Wait here. With me."
She looked at him, torn between rescuing her animal friends, and staying with the man she loved.
As the paramedics peeled away the jacket covering Dane's shoulder and worked on the gaping wound, she made her decision. "I'll be right back. I have to know everyone's okay."
"Marissa!"
She jogged to the house, slipped inside, and headed upstairs. She paused on the third step.
Something smelled like gasoline and the carpet was gooshy under her Keds. Had Tuesday spilled something on the stairs?
Distracted by the unfolding drama in the living room, she watched the police wrestle Michael to the floor and attempt to secure his arms and legs with plastic ties.
