The great house went silent after the patrol cars departed. The smell of cedar logs burning in the grand stone fireplace filled the living room.
Maya stood near the foyer, wearing a dry oversized sweatshirt that the housekeeper had lent her, her duffel bag resting beside her feet.
Maya: I packed my belongings, Mr. Hayes. I know it's best if I leave now so there are no complications with the legal investigation.
Richard walked over from the sofa where Leo was fast asleep under a cashmere blanket.
Richard: Where do you think you're going, Maya?
Maya: I assumed... after all this chaos, my presence would only remind you of what happened today.
Richard: You saved my son's life while I raised my hand against you like a blind fool.
Maya lowered her gaze, her fingers trembling slightly against the strap of her bag.
Maya: You were scared for your boy, sir. Any father would be terrified seeing his child in that state.
Richard: That doesn't excuse my temper. And it certainly doesn't excuse how close I came to letting an innocent person take the fall for pure evil.
Richard took a white business card from his desk and wrote a series of numbers across the back.
Richard: Tomorrow morning, my head of human resources will transfer full legal sponsorship for your university degree into your name. All your tuition and housing expenses are covered permanently.
Maya: Mr. Hayes... no, I can't take that. I only did what anyone with a heart would do.
Richard: Victoria had every privilege in the world, and she didn't have that heart. You jumped into deep water without knowing if you could get back out.
Leo stirred on the couch, rubbing his eyes, and looked across the room.
Leo: Maya? Are you staying to read my book?
Richard looked at Maya with a tired, genuine smile.
Richard: If you're willing, Maya, the head caregiver position for Leo is yours, with full executive salary and a seat at our family table. Leo needs someone real in his life. And so do I.
Maya looked toward the sleeping boy, then back to the billionaire who had finally opened his eyes to what true loyalty looked like.
Maya: I'd love to read him his book, Mr. Hayes.