An hour later, police cruisers lined the estate's long driveway, their red and blue lights flashing against the white limestone walls[cite: 1].
Marcus Morelli sat up in a wheelchair in the grand foyer, wrapped in a warm blanket while federal agents took his statement[cite: 1].
Duke sat quietly beside Sofia, resting his massive head on her lap while she stroked his fur[cite: 1].
Marcus: "Bring the maid and her daughter over here."[cite: 1]
Maria walked forward nervously, holding Sofia's hand tightly[cite: 1].
Maria: "Mr. Morelli, I am so sorry for the disturbance earlier. I tried to keep Sofia away from the dog..."[cite: 1]
Marcus: "You are apologizing to me?"[cite: 1]
Maria: "Yes, sir... I know maids aren't supposed to let children into the main hall..."[cite: 1]
Marcus held up his hand, a soft, genuine smile breaking across his tired face[cite: 1].
Marcus: "Your daughter saved my life, Maria. My own doctor was paid off by my corporate rivals to stage a fatal stroke."[cite: 1]
Sofia: "Duke is a good dog, Mr. Morelli. He was just sick."[cite: 1]
Marcus: "Duke only likes people with pure hearts, little one. He knew you were here to help."[cite: 1]
Marcus turned to his head security chief, gesturing toward his briefcase[cite: 1].
Marcus: "How long has Maria worked for this estate?"[cite: 1]
Security Officer: "Three months, sir. Hired through the agency."[cite: 1]
Marcus: "Cancel her agency contract immediately."[cite: 1]
Maria’s heart sank, her eyes filling with sudden tears as she clutched her apron[cite: 1].
Maria: "Mr. Morelli, please! I need this job! I am a single mother!"[cite: 1]
Marcus: "You misunderstand me, Maria. You are no longer a maid here."[cite: 1]
Maria: "Sir?"[cite: 1]
Marcus: "Starting today, you are the Head Estate Administrator with a salary of two hundred thousand dollars a year."[cite: 1]
Maria gasped, her hands flying to her mouth in utter shock[cite: 1].
Maria: "Two hundred thousand?! Sir, I can't take that much!"[cite: 1]
Marcus: "You protected my home, and your daughter protected my life. You will never clean another floor again."[cite: 1]
Sofia: "Does that mean Duke can play with Mr. Teddy every day?"[cite: 1]
Marcus: "Duke is officially your personal dog now, Sofia. He belongs to you."[cite: 1]
Sofia squealed with joy, throwing her small arms around the giant dog’s neck as Duke let out a soft, happy bark[cite: 1].