The tension grew, and Michael felt trapped between loyalty to the woman who had helped raise him and the undeniable progress his daughter was making. Matters escalated when Ava’s preschool teacher called with excitement.
“She spoke today,” the teacher said. “She played with other children and told them stories about cooking and cleaning games at home. Whatever is happening there is working.”
Michael arrived home early that day to find Agnes scolding Paige in the backyard. Ava clung to Paige’s legs, crying openly.
“I do not want her to go,” Ava sobbed.
Michael stepped forward. “What is going on.”
“She took the child outside without permission,” Agnes snapped.
“Ava wanted to see the flowers,” Paige said quietly.
Michael knelt beside his daughter. “Are you okay, sweetheart.”
Ava sniffed. “Paige says flowers grow even when it rains. Like people.”
That night, Michael confronted both women in his study. Agnes accused Paige of manipulation, revealing she had investigated her background and discovered Paige held a degree in early childhood education.
“Why hide that,” Michael asked.
“Because people assume intentions when they see education and poverty together,” Paige said honestly. “I needed work, not suspicion.”
Days later, Agnes produced another accusation, claiming Paige had lied about her address. When confronted, Paige admitted she had recently moved into a shared shelter with her siblings after losing affordable housing.
“I was scared,” Paige said, voice trembling. “I did not want to lose this job. Ava matters to me.”
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