Heart Racing
Michael took a deep breath. His heart pounded, but he forced himself to stay calm. He knew rushing in could frighten both Gloria and Emily, and might make the situation worse. He needed composure. He needed facts.

Entering the Nursery
With quiet determination, Michael pushed the door wider and stepped into the nursery. Gloria looked up, startled. For a brief second, guilt flickered across her face before she forced a nervous smile.

“Mr. Whitmore,” she stammered, setting the jar aside. “I didn’t expect you back so soon.”

Michael ignored her greeting. His eyes locked on the jar.

“What are you feeding her, Gloria?” His voice stayed steady, though each word carried weight.

Gloria hesitated, glancing at the jar as if weighing a lie. “It’s… just some homemade baby food. I thought Emily might like a change.”

“Homemade?” Michael repeated, skepticism sharp in his tone. “Why not use the food prepared by the nutritionist?”

Her hands fidgeted. “I… I thought she might like something different. It’s safe, I promise.”

A Father’s Concern
Michael crouched beside Emily. His daughter blinked up at him with innocent curiosity. She seemed fine, yet the jar gnawed at his mind. Could Gloria be hiding something?

“I’m going to need more than your word,” he said, standing. “May I take this to be tested? Just to be sure?”

Gloria’s face paled. For a moment, she hesitated, but then nodded. “Of course, Mr. Whitmore. I understand.”

Taking Action
Michael picked up the jar. He would have its contents analyzed first thing in the morning. Sympathy pricked at him—perhaps Gloria meant no harm. Or perhaps she hid something darker. Either way, Emily’s safety came first.

“I trust you’ll understand if I ask you to take a few days off,” he said firmly. “I’ll handle things here until we get to the bottom of this.”

Gloria nodded, avoiding his gaze. “Yes, Mr. Whitmore. I’m truly sorry if I’ve caused concern.”

Protecting What Matters Most
As she left, Michael’s eyes stayed on Emily. Holding his daughter close, he felt a fierce resolve settle within him. Her tiny fingers curled around his. He would protect her, no matter the cost.

This was his flesh and blood. He kissed her forehead and vowed to uncover the truth behind Gloria’s actions—even if it meant unearthing secrets he never imagined existed within his own home.