Chapter 5
The federal marshals escorted Evelyn out through the grand arched double doors, her protests echoing down the marble hallway until they faded into the quiet hum of the estate. The heavy atmosphere in the dining room finally lifted, replaced by an overwhelming sense of liberation.
Clara walked over to Marcus and Leo, kneeling beside them to offer a gentle, reassuring smile. Her anxious demeanor of the morning had completely transformed into radiant strength.
"We did it, Marcus," Clara whispered, placing a warm hand on Marcus's scarred forearm. "The truth finally caught up to her."
"I don't know how to thank you, Clara," Marcus said, looking up with profound gratitude in his weary eyes. "You risked everything to bring my son back to me."
"We risked it together," Clara corrected gently, standing up as Special Prosecutor Miller approached them with the final paperwork. "The federal court has already issued an immediate custody restoration order."
Leo looked up from his father's arms, wiping his freckled cheeks with the sleeve of his miniature navy blue suit. "Does this mean I get to live with you in the kitchen, Dad?"
May you like
Marcus let out a deep, rumbling laugh that sounded like music after a ten-year drought. "It means you can eat as many gourmet pastries as you want, son, and nobody will ever stop us."
David Miller handed the signed paperwork to Marcus, offering a respectful nod. "The federal safe house in Virginia is ready if you need temporary shelter while the estate transitions."
