You watched as your mother kept a hushed tone over the phone, her fingers pinching the bridge of her nose and her expression one of subtle fear.

“Astor, Cody- just…- go and play outside..!”

she only ever got like this when she was talking to your dad.. you could only wonder what it could be about this time. As much as rita tried to shield you from him and his abuse you had always been aware. You were the one that had called the cops on him in the first place and kept Cody in his room.

“But..-“

You started, a small frown on your face as she gave you a firm look and pointed to the door.

and that was that, you trailed outside to find Dexter and slumped down on the floor next to him.