Chapter 6 - The Sanctuary in Mount PleasantSix weeks after the rescue at the townhouse.
The morning sun broke over the coastal waters of Mount Pleasant, South Carolina, painting the sky in breathtaking hues of liquid gold, soft rose, and deep sapphire.
A cool, fresh sea breeze swept across the wide wooden porch of a breathtaking four-bedroom historic farmhouse—a new home purchased by Caleb entirely under his and Hannah’s names, far away from the dark memories of the downtown townhouse.
The old townhouse had been put on the market, its proceeds donated directly to Harbor Regional’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit to fund emergency transportation equipment for high-risk pregnancies.
Hannah stood on the porch wearing a comfortable cream cardigan, her long brown hair tied back in a loose braid. Her skin had regained its healthy, radiant glow, her strength fully restored.
In her arms, she held six-week-old Claire, who was sleeping peacefully in a pink cotton onesie, her tiny fingers clutching Hannah’s sweater.
Caleb walked out onto the porch carrying two warm mugs of fresh coffee. He set the cups on the small wrought-iron table, wrapping his arm comfortably around Hannah’s waist, pulling her close against his chest.
“How is our little girl doing today?” Caleb asked softly, kissing Hannah’s temple.
“She ate full four ounces at seven,” Hannah smiled, looking up at him with eyes full of deep peace and affection. “Dr. Jenkins said her weight gain is perfect.”
Caleb rested his hand gently over Claire’s soft back, feeling the steady, rhythmic beat of his daughter’s heart.
“Samuel called this morning, Hannah,” Caleb spoke gently. “The grand jury returned the criminal indictment against my mother.”
Hannah quieted, listening carefully. “What are the charges?”
“Three felony counts,” Caleb revealed. “Grand larceny, wire fraud involving the foundation, and felony reckless endangerment resulting in bodily injury. Her defense attorney is attempting to negotiate a plea deal, but the prosecutor is insisting on active prison time.”
Hannah took a deep breath, looking out over the blue waters of the marshland.
“Do you feel any regret, Caleb?” she asked softly, searching his eyes.
Caleb looked at his wife—the woman who had suffered in silence for four years to protect his feelings, the woman who had fought through blood and pain to bring their daughter into the world.
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“My only regret,” Caleb answered firmly, taking her hand into his, “is that I didn't open my eyes four years ago. You and Claire are my family, Hannah. Protecting you is the only duty I have.”
Hannah smiled—a true, unbroken smile that lit up her entire face. She leaned her head against his chest, watching the white pelicans fly over the water as the warm morning sun bathed their new home in golden light.
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