![\"\"](\"https:\/\/readmore.cx\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/08\/IMG_7148-300x75.jpeg\")
<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n
\u201cI got a report two children might be here,\u201d she said.<\/p>\n
Inside, Lily clutched Ben like a soldier guarding the last piece of home. Karen knelt. \u201cHi, Lily. Hi, Ben. I\u2019m just here to make sure you\u2019re safe.\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWe\u2019re fine here,\u201d Lily replied quickly.<\/p>\n
Karen\u2019s gaze flicked to Jake. \u201cIf you want to be considered for placement, you\u2019ll need background checks, paperwork\u2014\u201d<\/p>\n
\u201cWhatever it takes,\u201d Jake said.<\/p>\n
But the reprieve was brief.<\/p>\n
Two days later, Karen returned\u2014this time with Roy Patterson, Lily and Ben\u2019s maternal uncle. His eyes were sharp, his smile too thin.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019m here for my nephew,\u201d he said.<\/p>\n
The change in Lily was instant\u2014her body went rigid, knuckles white around Ben. Duke stepped in front of them, teeth bared in a low growl.<\/p>\n
Karen explained, \u201cRoy has filed for custody of Ben. The board may separate them if it\u2019s in their \u2018best interest.\u2019\u201d<\/p>\n