Chapter 6 - SANCTUARY
Maria nodded quickly, taking Clara’s hand into her own.
The little girl squeezed the maid's fingers, her tiny feet clicking softly as they stepped around the white lighter on the floor.
Victoria lunged forward, her black heels skidding on the slick tile.
"Julian, you can't leave me here! This is my house!" she shrieked.
Julian didn't flinch.
He reached into his pocket, pulled out his phone, and dialed three digits.
He held the phone to his ear, his eyes locked onto Victoria’s trembling face with absolute finality.
"Hello, officers," Julian said into the receiver.
"I need an immediate police unit at 124 Marble Lane."
"Child endangerment and attempted assault."
Victoria sank back against the cold stone wall, her manicured hands sliding uselessly down the polished surface.
Julian turned his back on her, walking out into the bright, quiet hallway where Clara waited.
He picked his niece up into his arms, wrapping his suit jacket around her small shoulders.
"Is the fire gone, Uncle Julian?" Clara whispered into his neck.
Julian pressed a soft kiss to her forehead.
May you like
"Yes, sweetheart," he whispered back. "The fire is out."
THE END
