Chapter 6: An Unbreakable Bond
Returning to the hospital, Julien found the suite filled with the sounds of morning. Leo was sitting up in bed beside Claire, reading an illustrated adventure book, while Theo was cheerfully drawing scribbles on a legal notepad Henri had provided.
When Julien walked in, both boys brightened instantly.
"Mr. Julien!" Theo chirped, holding up a drawing of a giant black car with giant round wheels. "Look, that’s your car! And that’s you, and that’s Leo, and that’s Mom!"
Julien took the drawing, his lips curving into a genuine smile that felt foreign yet profoundly warm on his face. "This is masterpiece-level work, Theo. I’m having it framed for my office."
Claire looked at Julien with profound gratitude. "The doctor said I can be discharged in three days. I don't know how I will ever repay you, Mr. Vance."
Julien pulled a chair beside her bed. "You kept my father’s legacy safe when no one else cared. You gave him dignity in his final hours. You owe me nothing, Claire. In fact, it is my turn to repay a debt that has been outstanding for twenty-five years."
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He laid the journal on the side table. "Arthur left something behind. Something that will ensure you, Leo, and Theo will never have to worry about shelter, medicine, or safety ever again."
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