“It keeps you from being alone,” Ava cut in softly. “You’re surrounded by people every day, Mom—and you’re still lonely.”
The silence that followed was heavy.
Daniel took a breath. “I’m not trying to replace you,” he said. “But maybe ask yourself why she trusts a janitor more than anyone in your world.”
For once, Eleanor had no answer.
They were escorted out minutes later.
In the hallway, Ava still hadn’t let go. “You’re not leaving, right?” she whispered.
Daniel knelt to her level. “I don’t care what your mom thinks.”
She smiled sadly. “You saved my puppy when the elevator almost closed on her. Friends don’t leave.”
“I won’t,” he said. “Unless they force me.”
They tried.
In the lobby, security blocked their path. “Mr. Brooks,” the guard said flatly, “your employment has been terminated effective immediately.”
Figures, Daniel thought.
Eleanor descended the stairs, composed and cold. “Ava, go upstairs. Now.”
“No,” Ava replied.
Daniel stepped forward. “She’s not an asset. She’s a child.”
Eleanor’s smile was thin. “You’ve painted a target on your back.”
“If that’s the cost of not letting her feel invisible,” Daniel said, “I’ll pay it.”