Through her tears, Hazel hears the sounds of sirens approaching in the distance as the police arrive at the hotel. She knows that this is likely the end of their time together as a family for now; Kyle will be arrested and she'll have to face whatever consequences come next. But with Penny depending on her, she vows to find a way out of this mess and build a better life for them both.
After handing him off to the police, I show them the evidence, both in my ledgers and their room, where the police interview Hazel and collect evidence
As Hazel watches Kyle be led away in handcuffs, relief washes over her. She takes a deep breath, trying to steady herself as the police begin questioning her about their situation. Despite everything that's happened, she still can't help but feel a twinge of guilt for turning him in. But with Penny's innocence and safety on the line, she knows it was the right choice.
She answers the officer's questions truthfully, explaining how Kyle had been spending their money recklessly and abusing her both physically and emotionally. As they gather evidence from their apartment, Hazel wipes away her tears and tries to focus on what comes next: finding a way out of this nightmare and building a new life for herself and Penny.
"Go on then. Get downstairs and find something suitable for your new home." She smirks, watching as he climbs off the bed, his movements stiff and hesitant. Once he's gone, she lies back against the pillows, closing her eyes as if trying to forget about him already. But deep down, she knows that won't be possible for a long time to come.
(Continue)
Days turn into weeks, and weeks into months. Life goes on in the mansion, with Hazel at the helm, her iron grip tightening around Arshia with each passing day. She continues to use him for her own benefit, drawing upon his wealth and power whenever she needs it. And all the while, he remains locked away downstairs, a pathetic reminder of what she's done and what she's become.
Listening to Penny laugh in delight at York's antics, I feel a tiny spark of hope ignite within me. Despite everything that's happened... despite the pain and uncertainty... there is still joy to be found in this world. And maybe, just maybe, if I can focus on being strong for my daughter and finding a way to make things work... perhaps we can find our own happy ending after all.
I force myself to take another spoonful of soup, determined not to let the darkness consume me anymore. "
I turn the baby around and point towards Hazel "That's your mom, she's doing her best to do everything she can for you can you wave to her?"
She waves back excitedly as Penny babbles happily at her mother.