Chapter 2 - The Red Crayon
The heavy sorrow radiating from the mafia billionaire’s table tugged violently at Maya’s compassionate heart. She knew exactly what it felt like to be completely overwhelmed by a dark, unforgiving world. Marco shot her another vicious glare from across the dining room, silently warning her to stay away from the VIP guests.
But Maya couldn't ignore the little girl's silent agony.
With smooth, natural grace, Maya approached the area. While Maya clears the neighboring table with her serving tray, a RED CRAYON rolls from Sophia's side onto the marble floor.
The small plastic cylinder landed with a soft click against the polished black marble. Maya carefully balanced her silver tray, ensuring the crystal water glasses didn't clink. With a soft rustle of her ivory puff-sleeve blouse and deep-emerald skirt, Maya picks it up and crouches beside Sophia.
"Lost something important?" Maya asked gently, her voice a warm, comforting melody.
Dante turns immediately, watching Maya. His piercing pale-gray eyes swept over her fragile form, calculating and intense. The heavy platinum watch on his powerful wrist gleamed under the golden lamps as his massive shoulders tensed.
Maya didn't shrink under his intimidating gaze. Instead, she kept her focus entirely on the heartbroken child. Maya places the red crayon beside Sophia's hand on the pristine ivory tablecloth.
Maya gives Sophia a gentle, breathtaking smile, her naturally pink lips curving with pure, unadulterated warmth.
"My favorite was purple," Maya whispered softly.
Sophia finally looks directly at Maya. The little girl's enormous crystal-blue eyes locked onto the beautiful waitress. Her long lashes fluttered. For the first time in three agonizing days, a spark of life returned to the child's devastatingly sad face.
Her tiny fingers slowly close around the red crayon.
Silence hung heavy over the table.
May you like
Sophia, whispering: "Purple."
👉 Maya thought she was just being kind, but those two syllables were about to stop the entire restaurant.
