Chapter 2 - THE PRICE OF A CHILD
The facility director, Mrs. Gable, was a stern woman who looked at Julian’s tailored suit with blatant greed.
"Maya is a chronic runner, Mr. Vance," Gable sneered, flipping through a thin file. "She’s trouble. Hoards food. Fights with the older kids. You don’t want to get involved with a ward of the state."
"I didn't ask for a character assessment," Julian said, his voice dropping to a freezing, corporate command. "I asked to see her."
Before Gable could argue, the office door creaked open. Maya stood there, her yellow dress now stained with mud, a fresh bruise on her cheek. She froze, seeing Julian and Leo.
Leo didn't hesitate. He let go of his father's hand, walked right up to Maya, and did something that made Julian’s heart stop. He hugged her.
Then, in a voice as rusty and quiet as an old music box, Leo spoke his first word in 365 days. "Stay."
Julian looked at the director, pulling a platinum checkbook from his breast pocket. "I am placing her under my emergency foster care. My legal team is already on the phone with a family court judge. Pack her things."
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Maya looked up at the towering billionaire. "You're buying me?" she whispered, terrified.
"No, sweetheart," Julian said softly, dropping to one knee. "I'm rescuing you."
