Chapter 9 - The Promise
When I walked into the guest wing of the estate, the heavy, terrifying hum of medical equipment had softened.
Sarah was sitting up in bed. The deadly pallor had left her skin, replaced by a faint, hopeful flush of color. Sitting next to her on the bed, wearing her yellow raincoat and bright blue shoes, was Lily.
Lily looked up when I entered. She hopped off the bed and ran to me, wrapping her arms around my legs just like she had on the sidewalk two days ago.
"You fixed her," Lily beamed, looking up at me with Thomas's eyes.
I knelt down and pulled the little girl into a tight hug. "No, Lily. You fixed her. Because you were brave enough to ask for a pair of shoes."
I stood up and walked over to Sarah. She reached out, taking my hand in hers. Her grip was weak, but it was real.
"It's over, Sarah," I told her quietly. "Marcus is in federal custody. The cartel buyers are being rounded up. The accounts have been seized. You don't ever have to run again. You and Lily are safe."
May you like
Sarah let out a shuddering breath, tears of absolute relief sliding down her face. "Thank you, David. I didn't know who else to turn to. I only sent that text because I knew my time was running out. I just wanted her to be loved."
"She will be," I promised. "By both of us."
