“No, buddy,” Daniel said softly. “You did nothing wrong. Nothing.”
With shaking fingers, he began untying the knots—first the ankles, then the wrists. Each rope felt like a blade cutting through his chest.
When Ryan was finally free, Daniel lifted him carefully into his arms. The boy clung to him tightly and began crying uncontrollably.
“It’s okay,” Daniel whispered, rocking him gently. “I’m here now. Nobody will ever hurt you again. I promise.”
Laura tried to interrupt nervously.
“Sir, he was throwing a tantrum. It’s dangerous for him to move suddenly. I was just trying to control the situation—”
“With ropes?” Daniel snapped.
She had no answer.
“Leave,” Daniel said coldly. “Get out of my house right now.”
Laura’s tone changed instantly, tears filling her eyes.
“Please, Mr. Carter. I need this job. I made a mistake. I’ll return the car, anything—”
“Keep the car,” Daniel replied. “And every time you drive it, remember why you got it.”
She realized she had lost. With a final bitter glare, she grabbed her bag and hurried out of the yard.
At last, silence returned.
Daniel sat on the stone bench beneath the magnolia tree with Ryan still in his arms.
“She’s gone?” Ryan asked quietly.