Chapter 3 - SANCTUARY IN THE NURSERY
Emily gathered what little dignity she had left, turning on her heels and rushing toward the estate’s grand front entrance.
The heavy oak doors slammed shut behind her, echoing like a thunderclap throughout the silent mansion.
Jonathan turned his attention toward Maria, his rigid posture softening as he stepped toward the young maid.
"Is Thomas hurt, Maria?" Jonathan asked softly, hovering his hand near the beige wrap sling without touching it directly.
"He's safe, Mr. Sterling... he slept through the noise," Maria whispered, her dark eyes filled with lingering anxiety.
Jonathan guided Maria into the adjacent nursery, securing the heavy door behind them with a electronic lock.
The nursery was bathed in warm, soft lighting, decorated with plush toy bears and a custom oak crib.
Maria carefully unbuckled the wrap sling, lowering three-month-old Thomas into his crib as he let out a tiny yawn.
"I shouldn't have let her near the hallway, sir," Maria apologized, smoothing down her white apron nervously.
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"You shielded my son with your own body, Maria," Jonathan corrected firmly. "You have nothing to apologize for."
***
