Janet stammered, attempting to regain her composure. “Michael, you don’t understand—she needs discipline. She’s lazy and—”

“Enough!” Michael cut her off, his voice firm. “This is not discipline. This is abuse. Sophie is a child, not your servant.”

Sophie clung to her father, feeling the warmth and safety she had missed in his absence. Michael knelt beside her, taking her hands gently, wincing at the sight of her injuries. “Oh, my sweet girl, I’m so sorry.”

Janet attempted to argue, but Michael was resolute. “Pack your things, Janet. I want you out of this house by tonight.”