David walked up the grand marble staircase to his master bedroom on the second floor[cite: 1]. He knocked softly on the heavy oak door[cite: 1].
David: Sarah, it's me[cite: 1]. She's gone[cite: 1].
The door clicked open, and Sarah stepped aside, offering a warm, reassuring smile[cite: 1]. Inside the room, Lily was sitting on the edge of the large king-sized bed, wearing a soft pink cotton sweater and clean jeans[cite: 1]. The grey maid uniform was crumpled in a trash bin near the door[cite: 1].
David walked over and sat beside his daughter, reaching out to gently touch her small hand[cite: 1].
David: Hey, baby girl...[cite: 1] How are you feeling?[cite: 1]
Lily: Is...[cite: 1] is Victoria really gone, Dad?[cite: 1] Is she ever coming back?[cite: 1]
David: She is never coming back, Lily[cite: 1]. She's going to prison for a very long time, and no one will ever hurt you or make you wear that uniform again[cite: 1].
Lily looked down at her new sweater, tears welling in her eyes once more, but this time they were tears of pure relief[cite: 1]. She threw her small arms around David's neck, burying her face against his chest[cite: 1].
Lily: I missed you so much, Dad...[cite: 1] I thought you forgot about me...[cite: 1]
David: I could never forget about you, sweetie[cite: 1]. You are my whole world[cite: 1]. Your mom left you in my care, and I promise you on my life that I will always protect you[cite: 1].
Sarah stepped forward, holding a tray with a warm cup of hot chocolate and fresh chocolate chip cookies[cite: 1].
Sarah: Here you go, little princess[cite: 1]. I made your favorite snack[cite: 1].
Lily smiled softly, wiping her cheeks as she took a cookie from the plate[cite: 1].
Lily: Thank you, Sarah[cite: 1].
David: Sarah, starting today, your monthly salary is doubled, and you are taking over as the head manager of this entire estate[cite: 1].
Sarah gasped, her hands flying to her mouth as her eyes widened in complete surprise[cite: 1].
Sarah: Mr. Sterling...[cite: 1] that's far too generous![cite: 1] I was just doing what was right for Lily![cite: 1]
David: You protected my daughter when I wasn't here to see the truth, Sarah[cite: 1]. You earned every single penny of it[cite: 1].
Sarah: Thank you, Mr. Sterling![cite: 1] Thank you so much![cite: 1] I promise I will take good care of this home and little Lily[cite: 1].
David wrapped his arm around Lily's shoulders, holding her close as they listened to the birds chirping outside the open window[cite: 1]. The sun shone bright and warm over the mansion, bringing a peace that had been missing for far too long[cite: 1].