Chapter 14 - A New Cry in the Room
Three days later, the hospital discharged Anna and Maya with a clean bill of health.
David met me in the hospital lobby with a signed court order and a cashier’s check.
"The judge denied Evelyn’s bail completely after reviewing the nursery camera footage," David told me, handing over the paperwork. "Between the attempted arson, the assault footage, and the toxicology reports, her defense attorney is already advising her to take a twenty-year plea deal. She will die behind bars, Mark."
"And the estate?"
"Fully transferred to your name. Every account, every property deed, every dividend. You are entirely independent."
"Good," I said. "Liquidate the Elmwood house. Sell it at whatever price moves it fastest."
"Where are you going to live?"
"Somewhere with mountains, fresh air, and three thousand miles between us and this city," I smiled.
We walked out to the parking lot where a brand-new SUV was waiting. I helped Anna into the passenger seat, carefully strapped Maya into the rear safety seat, and got behind the wheel.
May you like
As we drove past the Elmwood neighborhood, I didn't look back at the street. I didn't look back at the old life.
In the rearview mirror, Maya let out a soft, sweet coo, her big brown eyes gazing curiously out the window at the blue sky above. Anna reached her hand across the center console and interlaced her fingers with mine. Her grip was strong, warm, and unshakable.
