Chapter 18 - Maya’s Turn
Maya turned eighteen a few months later.
Thanks to the environment Claire and I provided, she hadn't grown up fearful and anxious like I did.
She was bold, confident, and fiercely protective of those she loved.
For her birthday, I handed her a thick folder.
“What’s this?” she asked, ripping the bow off.
“Your college is fully paid for,” I said.
“And this is the deed to a small starter home in Seattle, near the campus.
It’s yours.
Free and clear.”
Maya burst into tears and threw her arms around my neck, squeezing me tight.
I hugged her back, feeling the strong, steady rhythm of my artificially regulated heart.
“You didn't have to do this, Leo,” she cried.
“I promised Mom’s money would build our family up,” I whispered.
May you like
“And nobody will ever tell you to pack boxes while you’re suffocating.
You are free.”
