“Leave her alone,” I said softly, but loud enough for them to hear. My voice sounded foreign on that porch, like the squeak of an old floorboard in a new house.

Preston turned to me, a malicious spark flashing in his eyes. He hated it when I interfered. He thought I was just a crazy old woman fussing over her daughter. “Eleanor Hayes, don’t worry. We’re just having some fun, right, honey?” He winked at my daughter.

Lena nodded, forcing another smile. “Of course, Mom. Everything’s fine.”