Thaddeus shot her a sharp look, silently telling her to keep quiet, before reaching for the phone. Without another word, he answered, his voice dropping low.
"Kayden."
"Daddy," Kayden's voice came softly through the line, carrying both warmth and hesitation. "I just got home now."
Thaddeus' tone tightened. "You went out without telling me."
Kayden shifted on the other end. "I just went to eat."
"I'm not saying you need to tell me every detail of where you go," Thaddeus said firmly, "but at least let me know your movements so I can be sure you're safe. You're in my care, Kayden. Whatever happens to you, your father will come for me and question me." He paused, his voice softening slightly. "And aside from your father, you can't make me worry or regret letting you go to your friends' place."
Kayden listened quietly. Thaddeus added, "You can go out with your friends, but you have to let me know. Okay?"
"Okay, Daddy. I understand."
