Hope Hospital's psychiatric wing had been cleared long before Ares' car arrived.
No waiting patients. No lingering noise. Only polished floors and controlled silence.
Jack was already outside the clinic, posture straight, expression neutral.
"Everything is arranged, Boss."
Ares nodded once.
Lara stepped forward with Shay between them, each holding one of the child's hands. To any outsider, they looked like a picture-perfect family—wealthy father, gentle mother, fragile daughter.
The illusion was flawless.
Lara paused when her gaze fell on the name etched into the frosted glass door.
Virgie Chavez, PhD Pediatric Psychologist.
An assistant opened the door immediately.
"Good morning, Princess," the young woman greeted Shay brightly.
Shay gave a restrained nod. No sparkle. No childish chatter.
Lara felt that small reaction like a bruise on her heart.
They were ushered into the inner office.
