Three police officers and two paramedics rushed quickly into the brightly lit house.
David explained the entire situation clearly while pointing down at the open floor hatch.
The officers moved fast, placing Helen in handcuffs before she could attempt to flee.
Helen: Officers, this is a huge misunderstanding between my husband and me!
Police Officer: You have the right to remain silent, ma'am, keep your mouth shut.
The paramedics gently checked Maya over, giving her warm blankets and fresh water bottles.
They confirmed she was weak and dirty but otherwise stable and healthy overall.
David sat right beside Maya the whole time, holding her hand while officers took pictures.
They took photograph evidence of the hidden brass latch and the tiny crawlspace compartment.
Police Officer: Sir, we are taking your wife into custody for child endangerment and kidnapping.
David: Make sure she stays behind bars where she belongs for this crime.
Police Officer: The district attorney will handle full felony charges regarding the inheritance fraud.
Helen was led out the front door in handcuffs, glaring back at David in silence.
David felt a massive weight lift off his chest as the police car doors slammed shut outside.
He turned his attention back to his two daughters sitting together on the couch.
Maya was eating the sandwich Lily had made for her, smiling weakly at her younger sister.
Maya: Lily saved me, Daddy.
David: How did she save you, Maya?
Maya: She heard me tapping on the floor wood when Helen was sleeping yesterday.
Lily: I heard a small tap-tap sound under my bedroom rug, Daddy.
David: You are a very brave little girl, Lily.
David hugged both of his daughters tight in his arms, crying tears of pure relief.
He knew that long legal battles regarding the family trust and estate were coming.
A divorce lawyer would be called first thing in the morning to strip Helen of everything.
The full inheritance left by his uncle would be secured safely for Maya's future healthcare.
None of the money mattered to David compared to having his precious family back together.
The long nightmare that had started three years ago was finally reaching its end tonight.