Chapter 4 - The Fragile Shield
Clara spent the afternoon in the private greenhouse behind the manor. Here, among orchids and fern fronds, the clamor of the world felt distant. Yet fear clung to her like a cold draft.
Her younger brother, Leo, was coloring quietly at a small wrought-iron table. His pale skin bore the telltale fatigue of chronic illness, but his eyes were bright as he drew cars.
"Clara?" Leo called out softly, looking up. "Are the fancy people going to make us leave?"
Clara knelt beside him, brushing his dark bangs away from his forehead. "No, sweetie. No one is making us leave."
"The angry lady in red told me bad things yesterday," Leo mumbled, looking down at his crayon. "She said if you didn't leave the house, the doctors wouldn't give me my medicine anymore."
Clara’s heart seized. She pulled her brother into a fierce, protective embrace. The sheer malice of Victoria’s reach was terrifying. Julian walked into the greenhouse just in time to hear Leo’s small confession.
The look on Julian’s face wasn't rage; it was cold, decisive resolution. He walked over, knelt down next to Leo, and extended a gentle hand.
"Hey, buddy," Julian said warmly. "Do you know who owns the hospital where your doctors work?"
May you like
Leo shook his head shyly.
"I do," Julian said softly, smiling. "And I promise you, on my honor, your doctors will take care of you forever. You and your sister are safe now."
