Inside the house, Isla called for me, and I blocked the doorway before she saw him, but it was too late.
She stepped into the hallway and asked, “Who are you?” and Adrian whispered her name like it hurt him.
After sending her to her room, I told him, “If you come here again without permission, I will get a restraining order.”
He left a folder and the money, saying, “Please think about it.”
That night, Isla asked, “Why is he here now?” and I told her the truth about her half brother needing help.
She said quietly, “He came because he needs something,” and I answered, “Yes.”
The next morning, she asked, “Do I have to do it?” and I told her firmly, “Nothing happens without your consent.”
She struggled with it and said, “I hate him, but if I can help a kid, that is different.”
I contacted the hospital myself to confirm everything, and the doctors explained the process and emphasized that Isla’s choice mattered completely.
When I asked her again, she said, “Can I meet him first?”