Kamille’s POV

As Zeke left, a sense of contentment washed over me. Everything was going well, except for Belle’s sullen attitude.

Turning to Belle, I felt something was amiss. “Are you really okay?” I asked, my voice filled with concern.

Belle met my gaze with a reassuring smile. “Yeah, I’m fine,” she replied, though her eyes held a hint of weariness.

I nodded, choosing not to press further. Belle was strong and capable, and I trusted her to confide in me if needed.

“How about I drop the kids off at school while you stay here with Royer?” she suggested.

Gratitude surged through me. It was a small gesture, but it meant the world. “Thank you so much, Belle. Zeke had security to follow them, but I’m so grateful to have you there,” I smiled.

“It’s alright, Kamille,” she smiled back.

I turned to the kids. “Time for school, guys,” I said, hoping for excited squeals, but met with childish protests.

Torin shook his head vigorously, his bottom lip jutting out. “Mommy! I don’t want to leave Royer alone. Can’t we stay here with him?”

Tyris, clutching her favorite stuffed toy, pouted. “Stay with Royer, Mommy! Tyris wants to stay and play too!”

Royer smiled weakly. “I would love to go to school, Mommy. I hate hospitals.” His plea almost brought tears to my eyes.

Roen, ever the understanding older brother, smiled. “It’s okay, Mommy,” he said softly. “I’d love to go to school. If you promise to bake cookies for us.”

They all loved cookies. My cookies.

Their protests softened at Roen’s reassurance, and I smiled at their sibling bond.

I knelt down, meeting their earnest gazes. “I know you want to stay with Royer, but he needs rest right now,” I explained gently. “I promise to personally bake you cookies when you’re back from school.”

Their eyes widened at the mention of cookies, their protests fading into eager anticipation. “Really, Mommy?” Roen asked, his voice tinged with excitement.

“Absolutely,” I replied, ruffling his hair. “Now, off you go with Aunt Belle. Have a great day at school, okay?”

With reluctant nods, the kids relented, their enthusiasm rekindled by the promise of treats. They hugged Royer goodbye before going to Belle.

Belle embraced me warmly. “See you later, bestie,” she said softly.

“Take care of them,” I murmured, filled with gratitude as I released her embrace.

With a final wave, Belle took the kids out, their laughter echoing in the hallway.

Alone in the quiet room, I watched Royer drift back to sleep. With a sigh of relief, I ensured he was comfortable before turning to the laptop on the bedside table.

With determined fingers, I sifted through the evidence I’d meticulously assembled against Gabriel. Each video clip, each damning photograph, served as a reminder of the horrors I’d endured.

This was my chance to hold Gabriel accountable, to seek justice for myself and for all who had suffered. I attached the files to an email.

One by one, the Manors would pay.

With a deep breath, I hit send. It would soon reach the anonymous blogger. I called Amanda, waiting anxiously. “Hello, Love,” her voice echoed.

“Hello Amy, it’s done,” I said, my voice steady but determined. “I’ve sent you the evidence against Gabriel.”

There was a pause. “Okay, love. I’ve just seen it,” she replied enthusiastically. “Expect a big reveal before noon.”

“Okay. Thank you, Amy,” I replied, my heart racing. I hung up.

Just then, the doctor entered. I greeted him with a hopeful smile. “How is Royer?” I asked eagerly.

He returned my smile. “He’s stable,” he said calmly. “He just needs plenty of rest and should avoid rigorous physical activity.”

Relief flooded me. “That’s great to hear!” I exclaimed.

But my hopes for Royer’s discharge were dashed. “However,” he continued, “we can’t discharge him yet. We need to observe him for another week.”

Disappointment flickered across my face, but I understood. I thanked him for his care.

Soon after, I drifted off to a nap, but was awakened by my phone. Blinking away sleep, I answered Amanda’s urgent call.

“Hey Kam, you need to check the news blogs,” she exclaimed.

My eyes brightened. As soon as I was online, I saw it: Gabriel Manor Arrested on Charges of Sexual Harassment, Rape, and Blackmailing.

My heart leaped. He’d gotten what he deserved. He’d tormented me, preyed on innocent victims, and was finally facing justice.

As I scrolled through the articles, many other women who’d been abused were speaking up, revealing the truth and extent of his atrocities.