Chapter 12 - The Storm Over Nashville Manor
The pediatric medical team rushed into the nursery.
I unlocked the heavy door with my master key, my hands shaking uncontrollably. When the door swung open, Rosie and Cami were huddled together under a small quilt in the corner of their crib, their eyes wide with fear from the noise.
"Rosie... Cami..." I choked out, dropping to my knees.
Rosie looked at me, her tiny lower lip quivering. "Daddy?"
"Yes, baby. It's Daddy."
She scrambled out of the crib and threw her tiny, fragile arms around my neck. Cami followed immediately, burying her wet face into my shoulder, clutching her stuffed rabbit.
"I'm sorry," I wept openly, clutching both of my baby girls against my chest, feeling their rapid heartbeats against my ribs. "Daddy is so, so sorry. Nobody will ever hurt you again. Nobody will ever lock this door again. I promise you. I swear on Mommy's soul."
The pediatricians gently examined them. While they were severely malnourished and dehydrated, Sarah’s nightly feedings had saved them from irreversible organ damage. With proper nutrition, medical therapy, and loving care, they would make a full recovery.
Sarah stood quietly by the doorway, watching with tears streaming down her face, ready to slip away into the night now that her duty was done.
I noticed her walking toward the hall.
"Sarah!" I called out, gently carrying both girls in my arms as I stood up.
She stopped and turned around.
"Where are you going?" I asked.
May you like
"My job is finished, Mr. Ward," she said softly with a humble smile. "The girls are safe. That's all Emily wanted."
"No," I said, walking up to her. "Your job isn't finished. Not by a long shot."
