Chapter 23 - THE CPS SURPRISE VISIT
At nine o'clock the following morning, two official sedans pulled up to the curb outside Lily’s childcare facility.
A sharp-suited social worker named Brenda Vance stepped onto the porch, flanked by two armed Cook County sheriff's deputies.
"Miss Lily Vance, we have an emergency court order to inspect the living conditions of Ethan Blackwood," Brenda announced coldly.
Lily stood squarely in the doorway, her heart hammering against her ribs, but her expression remained completely unbothered.
"This is a licensed facility with zero code violations, Miss Vance," Lily responded, her voice clear and carrying across the lawn.
Brenda pulled a laminated badge from her coat, holding it up with a smug, victorious smile.
"An anonymous complaint was filed with the state alleging an uncertified former criminal resides on this property," Brenda declared.
Victor stepped out from his cottage next door, wearing a plain gray sweater, holding a stack of court-approved rehabilitation certificates.
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"My living arrangements were approved by Federal Judge Harold Vance six months ago," Victor stated calmly, handing the papers to the deputies.
The deputies reviewed the judge's signature, turning to Brenda with visible hesitation as neighborhood mothers began gathering on the sidewalk.
