Chapter 1: The Broken Frame
The silence on the driveway was heavier than the cold water soaking through Arthur’s custom suit. He stared at Maya—her legs trembling, her small knuckles white as she clung to his arms for balance.
For three years, Arthur had been told by his stepmother, Evelyn, that his late brother’s daughter had suffered irreversible nerve damage in the accident. Every medical report, every specialist visit had gone through Evelyn. Arthur had provided the funds, trusting the woman who had cared for his family home.
""Maya, take my hands,"" Arthur said softly, ignoring Evelyn, who was slowly stepping backward toward the porch.
""I... I can't feel my toes, but I can stand,"" Maya sobbed, her voice a fragile whisper. ""Aunt Evelyn said if I tried to walk, my bones would snap.""
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Arthur’s heart hammered against his ribs in a wave of cold fury. He picked Maya up into his arms, wrapping her shivering frame in his dry suit jacket. As he turned toward his SUV, he looked back at Evelyn.
""The police are already on their way,"" Arthur said, his voice terrifyingly calm. ""Don't be here when they arrive.""
