Chapter 7 - UNCOVERING LUNA'S PAST
By dawn, the news of the foiled plot on Richard Sterling’s life broke across national news networks. Victor Kray’s corporate empire collapsed overnight under the weight of federal indictments, and Sterling Atlantic Logistics was cleared of all security threats.
However, as the dust began to settle, Richard and Marina turned their full attention to the little girl sitting quietly in the department's family center.
Child Protective Services had dispatched an officer, Ms. Henderson, to take custody of Luna.
"She has no registered birth certificate in the county," Ms. Henderson explained to Richard and Marina in the hallway. "We suspect her mother passed away two years ago based on local shelter records. She’s been living on the streets near the docks ever since, surviving on hand-outs."
"She’s not going into a state facility," Marina said firmly, her voice leaving no room for argument. "Not after what she did for us."
"Mrs. Sterling, I admire your gratitude, but legal protocol requires—"
"I don't care about the protocol right now," Marina interrupted, stepping closer. "We have the resources to provide her with private medical care, counseling, and a safe place to stay immediately. My husband’s legal team is already preparing emergency guardianship papers."
Richard placed a reassuring hand on Marina’s shoulder. "Ms. Henderson, we aren't just offer financial assistance. Luna saved my family. We want to clear her legal status, provide her with a proper education, and offer her a permanent home if she wants it."
Ms. Henderson looked at the powerful couple, then through the window at Luna, who was drawing a picture of a sailboat on a piece of paper with Peter sitting beside her, showing her how to color the water blue.
"I will approve temporary emergency placement with your family," Ms. Henderson conceded softly. "Subject to home evaluation and background clearance."
When Marina walked into the room and broke the news, Luna looked up, her large brown eyes wide with disbelief.
May you like
"I don't have to go back to the docks?" Luna asked in a tiny voice.
Marina knelt beside her and took her small hands. "No, sweetie. You never have to sleep under a pier again."
