At the hospital, doctors worked quickly. The diagnosis came back: severe exhaustion, dehydration, and malnutrition. She would recover, but it would take time and stability.
Jonathan stayed in the waiting area with Eli and Grace. He bought juice and crackers from a vending machine, gently breaking the food into small pieces and wiping crumbs from their cheeks. For the first time in years, he felt grounded—not as a tycoon, but as a man caring for two frightened children.
“My Babies?”
Hours later, Maya opened her eyes. Her first word was a whisper: “My babies?”
A nurse reassured her, then Jonathan entered—Eli’s small hand in his, Grace resting on his shoulder. Maya’s eyes filled with tears.
“Who… are you?” she asked, voice hoarse.
“My name is Jonathan Pierce,” he said softly. “I found you on the street. You’re safe now. The doctors say you’ll recover.”