As I was about to turn and leave, Grace called out to me, “Chlo, c-can I come with you?”

I glanced at Atlas, and a glimmer of tenderness flickered in his eyes. I looked at Grace and asked, “Are you sure?”

She nodded, determined. “Yes! I want to go with you!”

“Mom!” Matthew’s own mother choosing to go with someone else felt like a slap in the face.

All the cops were left dumbfounded. Some of them understood our dynamics, which was nothing short of astonishing.

I turned back, supporting her as she gripped my hand. Her trembling was so intense that it was almost unnatural. I wanted to ask her again if she wanted to come with me, but the words got stuck in my throat.

In the lobby, Melanie stood there, watching Grace follow me. She stormed toward us in frustration, demanding, “Have you lost your mind? You’re going with her? Grace, if you go with her today, never come back to the Murphy family!”

I scoffed at Matthew.

Matthew, of course, understood my look. He yelled at Melanie, “Shut