Chapter 2 - The Medical Extraction
Within six minutes, three armored SUVs and a private pediatric ambulance tore through the iron gates of the Sterling estate.
Julian sat in the back of the ambulance, refusing to let go of Leo’s small hand. Beside them sat Hannah, her hands wrapped in clean gauze provided by the paramedics.
"His oxygen levels are low, Mr. Sterling, but his vitals are stable," the lead paramedic reported, attaching a small oxygen mask over Leo’s nose and mouth. "He's severely dehydrated and shows signs of mild malnutrition, but he is going to recover."
Julian kissed his son’s forehead, tears slipping down his face. "You were so brave, Leo. You kept that recorder safe."
Leo pulled down the oxygen mask slightly, looking at Hannah. "Hannah gave it to me through the linen chute two days ago. She told me to press record whenever the lady in the white dress came into the south corridor."
Julian looked up at Hannah. The maid sat quietly in her dusty uniform, her posture humble yet resolute.
"Hannah," Julian said, his tone thick with emotion. "You saved my son's life. How did you find out?"
"I heard knocking behind the pantry wall three weeks ago, Mr. Sterling," Hannah explained softly, her hands shaking slightly. "Mrs. Sterling always kept the south service wing locked and told the staff it was for structural renovations. When I saw Dr. Harrison bringing medical supplies into that locked room at night, I knew something was wrong. I bribed the butler for the emergency key and slipped the recorder to Leo."
Julian reached across the gurney, taking Hannah’s bandaged hand in his own.
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"You will never work as a maid another day in your life, Hannah," Julian swore softly. "You are part of this family now."
Meanwhile, back at the estate, six state troopers slammed Evelyn Sterling against the side of her luxury vehicle, clicking heavy steel handcuffs around her wrists while Dr. Harrison was dragged out of the guest house in restraints.
