Chapter 5 - Justice and Dawn
The morning sun on Saturday broke over the New Mexico desert in a brilliant cascade of golden light, warming the courtyard of our new home—far away from San Jeronimo, far away from the toxic shadow of the Vance estate, and far away from anyone who could ever dream of bringing harm to my little girl.
Inside the bright, airy living room, boxes were stacked neatly against the wall as we unpacked our new life.
Maya sat comfortably on the plush velvet sofa, her left arm now sporting a light, removable fiberglass cast painted in bright, cheerful shades of purple and pink. On the coffee table in front of her sat a crystal vase filled with fresh yellow daisies, and beside it rested a small, polished silver ballet slipper charm attached securely to a brand-new silver bracelet.
The front door opened softly, and I walked in carrying a tray of warm waffles and fresh orange juice, smiling as I set it down on the table.
“Breakfast is served, Captain Maya,” I saluted playfully.
Maya giggled, her bright blue eyes sparkling with a happiness and security I hadn't seen in years. She reached out with her good hand, picking up a waffle and taking a bite.
“Daddy?” she asked, looking up at me with absolute adoration.
“Yes, baby?” I sat down on the edge of the sofa, pulling her close.
“Are we ever going back to that big house with the tall gates?”
May you like
I wrapped my arm around her shoulders, pressing a gentle kiss to the top of her head, feeling the profound peace of a battle finally won, a promise finally kept.
“Never again, sweet pea,” I whispered, looking out the sparkling front window toward the open horizon where the road stretched out wide and free. “We’re home. And nobody is ever going to hurt you again. Daddy’s right here, and I’m not going anywhere.”
