Softly but firmly, he said, “Kenzie, open the door, baby. Open the door.” He heard the locks click and she pulled it open, standing aside for him to enter. He stared at her for a long moment but wouldn’t look at him. One hand lifted to stroke her hair and she jerked so slightly he almost didn’t catch it. “I would never hurt you. Not ever, Kenzie.” He passed her, walking through her living room, and absently noted the children’s books, toys, and drawing supplies in a little play area off to one side. He went down a short hallway and stopped at a door with a colored drawing taped to it. For just a second, he placed his palms on either side of the door and hung his head. His heart was pounding like a freight train and he took another deep breath. As he pushed open the door, he realized the moving blue light was a solar system night light. Mystery solved. A toddler bed on the far side of the room held a small form, breathing evenly in sleep. Diesel felt like crossing the room took forever. He looked down at the little boy curled under a New Jersey Devils quilt. He had black hair and was big for his age. No matter his size, he couldn’t be more than four and there was no way he was younger than three. Sensing someone, the little boy opened his eyes and stared at Diesel. After several big blinks, he said sleepily, “You’re da hockey p’ayer. Mommy said you was a friend. Diesel, huh?”
