Chapter 61
Chapter 61
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Maxine gazed at Jessica’s face, suddenly swept by a memory of her first meeting with Ivanna.
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Ivanna had been stunning–not in a flashy way, but with a gentle, soft beauty that made people want to shield her from the world.
When Maxine learned what Ivanna had endured, she swore to fight for justice.
It didn’t help that Ivanna had only finished secondary school, trapped in a society where even basic jobs required diplomas she didn’t have.
When it rains, it pours, Maxine thought bitterly. Yet through it all, Ivanna stayed calm, methodically helping build the case, never crumbling even when Gabriel’s name came up.
Ivanna had endured hell yet never lost her dignity. Maxine knew it was because Ivanna wanted Gabriel punished and justice served, but she couldn’t help admiring Ivanna’s resilience.
‘Such strength, Maxine marveled. ‘A woman like her, destroyed by that monster…‘
With tears in her eyes, Maxine gazed at Jessica. “Don’t say that. You’re amazing. Remember what the sheriff said in that cartoon we watched?”
Jessica sniffled. “Sheriff Labrador.”
“Right!” Maxine wiped her eyes. “What did he say?”
“Real bravery… is protecting yourself, not chasing danger.” Jessica’s voice steadied as understanding dawned.
“Exactly!” Maxine smiled. “You did perfectly today. Brian’s older–arguing might’ve made things worse. Sometimes walking away is brave.”
Jessica looked confused. “But… he’s your son. Would he really hurt me?”
Maxine’s throat tightened. She’d never regretted her decisions–until this moment.
Maxine thought, ‘If I’d sent Jessica to orphanage back then, let Naomi find her a stable, well–off family… that might’ve been. better for her. But life didn’t offer do–overs.
Taking a deep breath, Maxine said, “Sweetheart, some things… are beyond anyone’s control. Like your mom leaving. Like my son. That’s called… helplessness.”
“But I’ll always try to protect you. And when I can’t, you’ll protect yourself by being smart. Like Sheriff Labrador,” Maxine added.
Brushing hair from Jessica’s face, she continued, “Today proved you’re strong. You’re not weak or timid–you’re the bravest little girl.
At “mom leaving,” Jessica’s tears overflowed. “If… if she were here… no one would call me that, right?”
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