Chapter 2 - The Ransom
I stared at the woman from Child Protective Services in absolute horror.
My broken ribs screamed in protest as I tried to sit up higher in my hospital bed.
"There must be some mistake," I said, my voice trembling.
"I was in a car accident, but I am perfectly capable of making decisions for my children."
Susan clicked her pen and looked down at her clipboard with cold eyes.
"Your sister claims you are heavily medicated and exhibiting erratic behavior," Susan stated.
"She also pointed out that you have no immediate support system to care for the twins."
Claire stood in the corner of the room with a victorious smirk on her face.
"I just want what is best for my precious niece and nephew," Claire lied smoothly.
"Since Mara is bedridden, I am willing to take full custody of the babies."
I felt a cold sweat break out across my forehead.
Claire could barely keep a houseplant alive, let alone care for two toddlers.
Susan nodded thoughtfully and made a note on her paperwork.
"Family placement is always our first priority," Susan said.
Claire stepped closer to my bed and leaned in so only I could hear her.
"Turn the credit cards back on and double my monthly allowance," Claire whispered.
"If you pay me, I will tell this lady it was all a misunderstanding."
She was literally trying to hold my children ransom for shopping money.
Rage replaced the fear in my chest.
"I will never give you another dime," I hissed at her.
Susan looked up from her clipboard with a frown.
"Is there a problem here?" the social worker asked.
Before I could answer, the door swung open again.
My lawyer, Daniel Cho, strode into the room carrying a thick leather briefcase.
He looked immaculate in a dark suit, his expression hardened into a professional glare.
"The only problem here is a fraudulent report filed by a financially desperate relative," Daniel announced.
He handed a stack of legally bound documents to Susan.
"I am Mara's legal counsel, and I have already secured private, licensed, round-the-clock nursing care for the children."
Susan reviewed the documents and her strict demeanor instantly softened.
"These arrangements are more than adequate," Susan admitted.
"I will dismiss the petition immediately."
Claire turned pale as the social worker quickly exited the room.
"You think you are so smart," Claire screamed at me.
Daniel stepped between us and handed my sister a sealed manila envelope.
"You should be worrying about yourself, Claire," Daniel said coldly.
"I ran a background check on your boutique this morning."
Claire ripped the envelope open and her arrogant expression vanished completely.
May you like
"Those men you borrowed money from are not bankers, Claire," Daniel warned her.
"And since Mara is no longer funding you, they are coming to collect their debt today."
