Trying to help his mother
Dylan becomes extremely protective of his mother and sisters as the novel progresses and as he matures. As he grows up and becomes stronger, the desire to protect his mother and his siblings grows stronger and stronger until he comes up with a plan to kill Ian. Ironically and unfortunately, Dylan's actions cause one of his sister's death and a lot of anguish for his family.
Still has access to the house
After getting separated from Ian, his ex-wife takes out a restraining order against Ian. However, because the two have a daughter together, Ian still has the right to enter the house twice a day. This situation is ironic because even though the children's mother took the legal route to protect herself and her children, the legal system was unable to help her enough.
Being sent to her father
Melanie is one of the children Ian abuses on a daily basis. Her mother tries to protect her as much as she can but unfortunately, she is unable to stop Ian from gaining the legal right to take his daughter twice per month. This is ironic because twice a month, Melanie is forced to go to her molester even though there are many people who are aware of the situation and who could put a stop to it.
The brother
Ian's brother is presented in the novel as being a police officer and also working in the same community where Ian and his ex-wife live. Ian's brother is aware of the abuse going on inside Kristy's home and how much of it is caused by Ian. The brother does nothing about it and lets it happen. This situation is made to be even more ironic by the fact that the brother, given his profession, should have protected his former sister-in-law and her children, not make their situation worse.
Following in his father's footsteps
Dylan is presented in the novel as going to great lengths to protect his family. He tries hard not to be anything like his father and instead to be compassionate and kind. Ironically, his resolve is quickly forgotten and Dylan becomes exhibiting the same behaviors as his father. This will cause many problems down the line and will only make the situation worse.
