Part 9
Two large, uniformed security guards appeared from the hallway instantly, flanking Vanessa before she could utter another word. She threw one last venomous glare at Maria and Sophia before she was marched out of the kitchen, her expensive silk robe trailing behind her like a deflated flag. The heavy front doors clicked shut a moment later, and a profound, heavy silence descended upon the grand kitchen.
Daniel stood by the counter for a long moment, chest rising and falling as he took a deep, stabilizing breath. The cold rage that had fueled his journey across the world began to dissipate, leaving behind a profound sense of sorrow for what had happened in his absence.
He turned his attention back to Maria, who was still standing near the entrance, trembling so hard she had to lean against the wall for support. Tears were flowing freely down her cheeks, but she didn't say a word. She was terrified to speak, terrified that the storm hadn't fully cleared.
Daniel walked over to her slowly, his footsteps quiet. He didn't stop until he was standing a respectful distance away.
"Maria," he said, his voice thick with emotion. "I am so deeply, truly sorry."
Maria shook her head, wiping her eyes with her sleeve. "Mr. Hayes... I... I didn't know what to do. She told me you would fire me if I complained. She said nobody would believe a maid over a fiancée. I needed the job... for Sophia."
"Look at me, Maria," Daniel said gently, waiting until she raised her eyes to meet his. "You will never have to hide food in this house again. You will never have to protect your daughter from anyone under this roof. You didn't do anything wrong. I failed you by letting that woman into this house, and I will spend the rest of my life making it up to you both."
He turned to the head chef, who was standing frozen by the prep station. "Marcus."
May you like
"Yes, Mr. Hayes?" the chef answered immediately.
"Stop whatever you are making for the lunch menu," Daniel commanded. "I want you to make the biggest, most delicious bowl of macaroni and cheese this kitchen has ever produced. Use the best ingredients we have. And bring out every fruit, cracker, and dessert in the pantry. Sophia is going to eat first today."
