Chapter 8 - Unexpected Mercy
Mr. Maxwell walked back into the study, looking exhausted and much older than his fifty years.
He looked at the broken picture frame on the floor, letting out a heavy sigh.
Sarah immediately dropped to her knees again and began carefully picking up the broken glass.
"Please, do not trouble yourself with that, Sarah," Mr. Maxwell said softly.
"I am just trying to clean up my mess, sir," Sarah replied, a fresh tear sliding down her face.
"I will pack my things and take Violet out of your home immediately."
She gathered the last of the glass shards, holding them safely in the palm of her hand.
"I know I broke your most important rule, and I accept the consequences," she admitted bravely.
She picked up Violet, holding the sleepy toddler tightly against her shoulder.
"Thank you for not letting her send me to jail," Sarah said, turning toward the door.
"Wait," Mr. Maxwell commanded, his voice gentle but firm enough to stop her in her tracks.
Sarah paused, holding her breath, terrified he was going to change his mind.
"Where exactly were you planning on taking her tonight?" the billionaire asked.
Sarah swallowed hard, her immense pride fighting against her crushing poverty.
"We have a friend who lets us sleep on her couch sometimes," she lied softly.
Mr. Maxwell stared at her, seeing right through the brave facade she was putting on.
"Mrs. Alvarez told me about your situation when she recommended you for the job," he admitted quietly.
Sarah felt a hot flush of deep embarrassment rush to her cheeks.
May you like
"She told me you were living out of your car and struggling to survive," he continued.
"I did not bring Violet here to trick you or ask for pity, I just had no other choice," Sarah cried defensively.
