The hospital window exploded into a thousand pieces. Glass flew everywhere like tiny diamonds falling through the air. A small boy around 9 years old tumbled through the broken window and landed hard on the shiny floor. His name was Samuel. He was thin and dirty with torn clothes and bleeding feet. But his eyes burned with something powerful.

Determination. “Turn off the machines now!” Samuel shouted, pointing at the hospital bed. “Turn them off and your daughter will wake up and walk.” In the bed lay Hannah, a 9-year-old girl surrounded by beeping machines. Tubes and wires connected her to everything. She looked like she was sleeping, but she wasn’t.

She was in a coma, a deep sleep that doctor said she would never wake up from. Sitting beside the bed was Richard, Hannah’s father. He was a millionaire, one of the richest men in the city. But right now, with red eyes and messy hair, he just looked like a broken dad. Richard stared at Samuel with his mouth open.

Who? Who are you? Please, sir. You have to believe me. Samuel begged. Turn off the machines. Hannah is my friend. She doesn’t need them. They’re the reason she won’t wake up. Security. A woman’s voice shrieked. This was Veronica Richard’s wife and Hannah’s stepmother.

She wore a fancy black dress and looked perfect, except for the anger on her face. Get this filthy boy out of here. A man in a white coat stepped forward. Don’t touch my patient, Dr. Johnson yelled. He was Richard’s best friend and Hannah’s doctor. This boy is crazy. The machines are keeping Hannah alive. Two big security guards rushed into the room.

They grabbed Samuel’s arms and lifted him off the floor. No, wait. Samuel struggled against them. Mr. Richard, please listen. I know this sounds impossible, but I’m telling the truth. Hannah told me her name. We played together. Turn off the machines for just one minute. Just one minute and she’ll open her eyes. I promise. Richard’s face turned white. You You know Hannah? This is insane. Dr. Johnson said angrily.

Richard, don’t listen to him. He’s just a street kid. The machines are the only things keeping your daughter alive. Turn them off and she’ll die. He’s right, darling, Veronica added quickly. This boy is clearly sick in the head.

Why would you believe him over trained doctors? The guard started dragging Samuel toward the door, his feet kicked in the air. Please, Mr. Richard. Tears ran down Samuel’s dirty face. Don’t let them trick you. Your wife and the doctor are lying. They don’t want Hannah to wake up. Please. She’s my friend. Friends, don’t lie. How dare you accuse us? Veronica screamed, her face red with rage. Mr.

Richard, Samuel shouted as the guards pulled him through the door. Turn off the machines. Hannah will wake up. Don’t be deceived. The door slammed shut. Samuel’s voice disappeared down the hallway. The room went quiet except for the beeping machines. Richard stood frozen, his heart pounding, his hands shook.

How did he know her name? Richard whispered. Dr. Johnson put his hand on Richard’s shoulder. You’re a famous businessman. That boy probably saw Hannah’s picture in the newspaper. He made up the whole friendship story to trick you. Exactly. Veronica agreed, nodding. Street children always try to fool rich people for money. Don’t think about it anymore, darling.

Focus on Hannah. Richard sat back down and held Hannah’s hand. But something felt wrong, very wrong. That boy’s eyes had been so honest, so certain, so desperate. What if he was telling the truth? “The boy is gone now,” Veronica whispered to Dr. Johnson with a cold smile. “Hannah will stay asleep forever.” Dr. Johnson nodded just like we planned.

They didn’t know their evil plan was about to fall apart because Samuel wasn’t giving up. Not now, not ever. Hannah was his friend and friends never abandon each other. Hello friends, welcome to our story. Before we start, please like this video and subscribe.

Also, tell us in the comments where are you watching from? New York, London, maybe South Africa or Jamaica? We want to know. The sun was shining through the big windows of Hannah’s bedroom. It was a beautiful room with pink curtains, stuffed animals on shelves, and a soft carpet on the floor. But Hannah wasn’t playing with her toys. She was lying in her bed, propped up with pillows.

Richard sat in a chair next to her bed. He was reading from a children’s book. His voice was gentle and warm. Fairies only exist for those who believe in them, Richard read aloud. And in the deep forest where the oldest trees grow, there lived a fairy named Moon Beam. Who, Daddy? Hannah interrupted softly. Richard looked up from the book. Yes, sweetheart. When can I go outside and play? Hannah asked.

Her voice was weak and tired. I want to run in the garden. I want to feel the grass under my feet. Richard’s smile faded a little. His heart felt heavy. Soon, honey, when you get stronger. But I’ve been in bed for so long, Hannah said. Her big brown eyes looked sad. I’m tired of being sick.

Richard reached over and gently touched her cheek. I know, baby. I know. The door opened. Dr. Johnson walked in carrying his black medical bag. Veronica followed behind him. Good afternoon, Hannah. Dr. Johnson said with a big smile. How are you feeling today? Tired? Hannah said quietly. Dr. Johnson sat on the edge of the bed. He took out his stethoscope, the tool doctors used to listen to your heart and lungs.

Let me check you over, he said. He listened to Hannah’s chest, looked in her ears, and checked her temperature. Then he stood up and motioned for Richard and Veronica to follow him to the corner of the room. Hannah watched them talk in low voices. She couldn’t hear what they were saying, but she could see her daddy’s face getting sadder and sadder.

Richard, Veronica, Dr. Johnson said quietly. Hannah’s condition is very serious. The alastic anemia is getting worse. What does that mean exactly? Veronica asked, though her voice didn’t sound very concerned. It means her bone marrow isn’t making enough blood cells, Dr. Johnson explained. Her body can’t carry oxygen properly.

That’s why she’s always tired. That’s why she can’t run and play like other children. Richard’s hands were shaking. But you can cure her, right? There must be something we can do. Dr. Johnson shook his head slowly. I’m doing everything I can. She needs complete rest.

No excitement, no physical activity, and she needs to take her medicine every day, every single day, without missing. “We’ll make sure she takes it,” Veronica said quickly. “Won’t we, Richard?” Richard nodded, unable to speak. Tears were filling his eyes. “Good,” Dr. Johnson said. He patted Richard on the shoulder. “I’ll come back tomorrow to check on her. In the meantime, make sure Hannah stays in bed.

Any strain on her body could be very dangerous.” After Dr. Johnson left. Richard went back to Hannah’s bedside. He tried to smile, but Hannah could see the worry in his eyes. “Daddy, are you sad?” Hannah asked. “No, sweetheart,” Richard lied. “I’m just thinking.” “About what?” “About how much I love you?” Richard said, kissing her forehead. “Now, should we finish the story about the fairy?” Hannah nodded.

But she wasn’t really listening to the story anymore. She was looking out the window at the bright sunshine and the green grass and the blue sky. She wanted so badly to go outside. The next afternoon, Hannah was alone in her room. Veronica had gone shopping. Richard was at work. The housekeeper, Mrs. Patricia, was downstairs cooking lunch.

An old ball suddenly appeared, dropping hard onto the grass below. The girl’s eyes widened in surprise. “Someone must be playing outside and dropped it,” she murmured to herself. Hannah put her hands on the mattress, leaning forward to try to get up.

She really wanted to run out to the yard, return the ball, and maybe even play with whoever lost it. But in the middle of that impulse, memories flooded her mind. Her dad’s words, “You need to rest, sweetheart.” Veronica’s stern voice, “Stay in bed, Hannah. Don’t be difficult. Dr. Johnson’s warning. Any strain on her body could be very dangerous.” Hannah sank back against her pillows.

“No better if I stay here,” she whispered sadly. “I can’t push myself.” She stared at the ball sitting alone on the grass, wishing things were different. Meanwhile, outside the big mansion by the wall surrounding the property, a little boy watched anxiously. It was Samuel, an orphan kid surviving on the streets. “His greatest treasure, pretty much his only friend, was that old ball he’d found in a junkyard months ago.” He stared at the yard in despair.

“Oh no, I kicked it too hard,” he said to himself. “How am I going to get my ball now?” He sighed deeply. A few minutes earlier, Samuel had seen two cars leaving the house. One belonged to Richard, the other to Veronica. The boy figured the place might be mostly empty now. His eyes landed on a huge tree by the sidewalk.

Its thick branches stretched out and nearly touched the top of the wall. Street smart as he was, Samuel quickly did the math in his head. If he climbed that tree, he could jump over the wall and get his ball back. He listened carefully. He hadn’t heard any dogs barking, which was a relief. He didn’t want to be caught off guard by any angry animals.

Still, Samuel knew it wasn’t right to sneak into someone’s property. But that ball meant everything to him. It was his escape from loneliness. When he kicked it against walls or played with it in empty lots, he didn’t feel so alone. I’ll just grab it quick and leave right away, he thought, determined. I’m only taking what’s mine. Inside Hannah’s room, Mrs.

Patricia came in carrying a nice plate of food, carefully balancing it in her hands. Eat up so you can get strong, dear, she said kindly. And if you need anything, just ring the little bell by your bed and I’ll come running. Hannah smiled kindly, but she wasn’t hungry. Thanks, Mrs. Patricia. I’m not hungry right now, but I’ll eat later.

Just leave it beside me, please. Then she turned to the housekeeper, remembering what had just happened in the yard. Mrs. Patricia, a ball fell outside, but no one came to ask for it back. The woman glanced out the window with a disapproving look and muttered, “No, no one asked for it. But it’s just an old ball, probably junk. People are getting rudder and rudder these days.

They probably threw it there on purpose to mess up our nice lawn.” She shook her head. “Don’t worry about it, dear. Mr. Wilson, the gardener, will stop by later to clean up the garden. He’ll take care of it along with the old leaves.” Anna just nodded without arguing, but her curiosity stayed alive.

She kept staring at that ball left on the lawn, not knowing that on the other side of the wall, Samuel was making his final plans to sneak over and get back what he saw as a part of himself. Mrs. Patricia then left the room, closing the door quietly behind her. She had no idea that that simple forgotten object in the backyard was about to bring two lives together in an unexpected way. Hannah stared at the plate of food that Mrs.

Patricia had left for a few moments. She knew she needed to eat, that it was part of staying healthy. But honestly, the heaviness in every muscle made even lifting a fork feel like hard work. The little girl side, feeling too weak to bring the food to her mouth. Just then, she heard a different sound. It wasn’t from the hallway or downstairs.

It seemed to come from outside, something moving in the branches of a tree. She furrowed her brow and looked toward the window once more. Her heart jumped when she saw what was there. There was a boy, a skinny kid in old dirty clothes, balancing on one of the thick branches of the tree outside.

He moved with the skill of someone used to climbing like a monkey swinging through the jungle. Hannah watched, hardly breathing as the boy carefully made his way along the branch toward the wall. Samuel balanced carefully on the thick branch. His bare feet gripped the rough bark. He had climbed many trees before. It was one of the skills you learned when you lived on the streets.

But this tree was tall, and the branch was high above the ground. He took a deep breath and reached out toward the wall. His fingers touched the top of it. Almost there, he whispered to himself. With one quick movement, he pulled himself up onto the wall. For a moment, he sat there looking down at the beautiful garden below.

He had never seen grass so green or flowers so colorful. Everything looked perfect and expensive. Then he saw his ball sitting in the middle of the lawn like a red dot on a green carpet. “There you are,” Samuel said happily. He was about to jump down into the garden when something made him stop. He felt like someone was watching him. Samuel turned his head slowly and looked up at the big house.

His eyes went straight to a window on the second floor. A girl was there staring right at him. Samuel froze. His heart started beating fast. He had been caught. For a long moment, they just looked at each other. The boy on the wall and the girl in the window. Hannah couldn’t believe what she was seeing.

A real boy her age right there in her garden. She had been so lonely for so long, and now here was someone. Someone who looked like he needed a friend just as much as she did. Samuel expected the girl to scream or call for help. That’s what usually happened when rich people caught him somewhere he wasn’t supposed to be. But Hannah didn’t scream.

Instead, she did something that surprised Samuel completely. She smiled and waved at him. Samuel blinked in confusion. Was she being friendly? Carefully, not sure what else to do, Samuel waved back. Hannah’s smile grew bigger. She pointed down at the ball on the grass, then pointed at Samuel, making a questioning face. Samuel nodded eagerly. “Yes, that was his ball.

” Anna understood. She made a go-ahad motion with her hand as if to say, “It’s okay. You can get it.” Samuel couldn’t believe his luck. This girl wasn’t mad at him. She was actually helping him. He carefully climbed down from the wall, dropping onto the soft grass below. His feet sank into the lawn.

It felt so different from the hard concrete streets he was used to. Samuel ran to his ball and picked it up, hugging it to his chest. He felt so relieved to have it back. Then he looked up at Hannah’s window again. She was still watching him, still smiling. Samuel wanted to say thank you, but he was too far away for her to hear him clearly, so he put his hand over his heart and bowed the way he had seen people do in movies. Hannah laughed, a small, quiet laugh, but a real one.

It had been so long since she had laughed. Samuel grinned. He liked making her laugh, but he knew he needed to leave before any adults came back. He didn’t want to get the nice girl in trouble. He started walking back toward the wall, but then he stopped. He turned around and looked up at Hannah again.

She looked so pale, so thin, so sad, even when she was smiling. Samuel had seen many sad people on the streets. He knew what loneliness looked like. And this girl, even though she lived in a huge, beautiful house, looked very lonely. An idea came to Samuel’s mind. It was a crazy idea, maybe a dangerous idea, but Samuel had learned that sometimes you had to take risks to make good things happen. He walked back toward the house, stopping right below Hannah’s window.

He kept his hands around his mouth and called up to her, keeping his voice low so no one else would hear. “Hey, what’s your name?” Hannah leaned closer to the window. “Hannah,” she called back softly. “What’s yours?” “Samuel.” “Hi, Samuel.” Hi, Hannah. Samuel looked around quickly to make sure no one was coming. Thank you for not getting me in trouble.

It’s okay, Hannah said. It’s just a ball. I’m glad you got it back. Samuel bounced the ball a few times. It’s my only toy. I found it in a junkyard. It’s pretty special to me. Hannah’s face grew sad. You found it in a junkyard? Yeah, Samuel said. I don’t have money to buy toys, but that’s okay. This ball is enough for me. Hannah felt her heart break a little.

She had a whole room full of toys that she never played with anymore. And this boy had only one ball that he found in the trash. “Where do you live?” Hannah asked. Samuel’s face became serious. “Nowhere really. I live on the streets under bridges and empty buildings wherever I can find.

” “You don’t have a home?” Hannah’s eyes filled with tears. “Or parents.” “My parents died when I was little,” Samuel explained. I’ve been on my own since I was six. That’s terrible, Anna said. Don’t you get lonely? Samuel shrugged, trying to act like it didn’t bother him sometimes. But I’m used to it now. What about you? Why are you inside on such a beautiful day? Don’t you want to come out and play? Hannah’s smile disappeared completely. I can’t. I’m sick. I have a blood disease called a plastic anemia.

My body doesn’t make enough blood cells, so I get tired really easily. The doctors say I have to stay in bed all the time. That sounds awful, Samuel said sincerely. Being stuck inside all day must be so boring. It is, Hannah admitted. And lonely, too. I don’t have any friends anymore. Kids from school stop visiting. And my stepmother doesn’t like when people come to the house.

Samuel felt angry. How could anyone be so mean? This girl was sick and alone, and her stepmother wouldn’t even let her have friends. Well, Samuel said, making a decision. I’ll be your friend if you want me to. I mean, Hannah’s whole face lit up like a lamp being turned on. Really? You would be my friend.

Of course, Samuel said. Everyone needs a friend. And you seem really nice. You seem nice, too, Anna said happily. But how can we be friends? I can’t leave my room, and you can’t come inside the house. Samuel thought for a moment. Then he smiled. I can come visit you. I’ll climb the tree and come to your window. We can talk and I can tell you about all the things I see in the city.

It’ll be like you’re going on adventures without leaving your room. Hannah clapped her hands together. That would be wonderful. Can you come back tomorrow? I’ll come back everyday if you want. Samuel promised. Yes, please come everyday, Hannah said excitedly. Then her face became worried. But you have to be careful.

My stepmother, Veronica, she doesn’t like strangers. And neither does Dr. Johnson, my doctor. If they catch you, they’ll call the police. Don’t worry, Samuel said confidently. I’m really good at not getting caught. I’ve been sneaking around this city for years. Hannah smiled, but she still looked concerned. Just be safe. Okay, I will. Samuel promised. I should go now before anyone comes back, but I’ll return tomorrow afternoon, same time.

I’ll be waiting,” Anna said. Samuel ran back to the wall and climbed up quickly. Before he dropped down to the other side, he turned and waved one more time. Hannah waved back, her heart feeling lighter than it had in months. Samuel disappeared over the wall, and Hannah was alone again.

But this time, being alone felt different because now she had something to look forward to. She had a friend. Hannah lay back against her pillows, a real smile on her face. For the first time since getting sick, she felt truly happy. Tomorrow couldn’t come fast enough.

That evening, when Richard came home from work, he found Hannah sitting up in bed with a bright expression. “Daddy,” she called out when he entered her room. “Hello, sweetheart,” Richard said, surprised by how energetic she sounded. He sat down on the edge of her bed. “You seem happy today. Did something good happen?” Hannah wanted to tell him about Samuel, but something made her stop.

She remembered how Veronica didn’t like strangers coming to the house. What if her father said Samuel couldn’t visit anymore? I just had a good day, Hannah said instead. Mrs. Patricia made my favorite lunch and I read a really good book. Richard smiled and kissed her forehead. I’m so glad, baby. It makes me happy when you’re happy. They talked for a while about Richard’s day at work.

He told her funny stories about the people in his office. Hannah laughed at his jokes. Then Veronica came into the room. Dinner is ready, she announced. Her voice was cold and business-like. She looked at Hannah without much warmth. “Did you take your medicine today?” “Yes,” Hannah said quietly.

Whenever Veronica came into the room, Hannah felt smaller and sadder. “Good,” Veronica said. She turned to Richard. “The doctor will be here tomorrow morning to check on her again.” Richard nodded. “Thank you for remembering, dear.” After they left to go eat dinner downstairs, Hannah was alone again. Mrs. Patricia brought up a tray of food for her.

As Hannah ate her soup slowly, she thought about Samuel. She wondered where he was sleeping tonight. Was he cold? Was he hungry? Did he have a blanket? Hannah looked at her warm, comfortable room with new eyes. She had so much, a soft bed, good food, a beautiful house.

But she had been so focused on what she didn’t have, her health, her freedom, friends, that she forgot to be grateful. Samuel had nothing. He slept under bridges. He found his only toy in the trash. But when he smiled at her, his smile was real and bright. Hannah decided that she would help Samuel somehow. She didn’t know how yet, but she would figure it out.

Friends helped each other, and Samuel was her friend now. The next day, Samuel came back just as he had promised. And the day after that, and the day after that. Every afternoon when Veronica went shopping and Richard was at work, Samuel would climb the tree, jump over the wall, and visit Hannah at her window. At first, they just talked.

Samuel told Hannah stories about life on the streets, the funny things he saw, the kind people who sometimes gave him food, the other street kids he knew. Hannah told Samuel about the books she read, the movies she watched, and the dreams she had about running and playing like other children. But as the weeks passed, their friendship grew deeper.

One day, Samuel brought a deck of old playing cards he had found. They were bent and some were missing, but Hannah didn’t care. Through the window, Samuel taught her how to play different card games. They would hold up their cards and play together, laughing when one of them won or lost. Another day, Samuel brought colorful chalk.

He drew pictures on the garden stones while Hannah watched from her window and told him what to draw next. They created a whole imaginary world together. Castles and dragons and brave knights. Hannah looked forward to Samuel’s visits more than anything. He made her laugh. He made her feel normal. He made her forget even for a little while that she was sick. 3 weeks had passed since they first met.

It was a warm afternoon and Samuel had brought an old warn Uno card game he had traded for with another street kid. “Okay, your turn.” Samuel called up to Hannah. He was sitting on the grass below her window, his cards spread out in front of him. Hannah held up her cards at the window. “I’ll play a red seven.

” “No way,” Samuel said dramatically, slapping his forehead. “That’s exactly what I didn’t want you to play,” Hannah giggled. “Then I made the right choice. They played several rounds. Hannah won three times and Samuel won twice. Each time someone won, they both cheered and laughed.

Hannah looked noticeably weaker than she had months ago, but she was still lively. Her hands shook a bit as she held the cards, but her smile never left her face. She loved these afternoons with Samuel more than anything in the world. After countless rounds, Samuel gathered up the cards and tucked them in his pocket. He picked up his ball and held it under his arm.

I have to go now,” he said, looking up at her with a big smile. “But I’ll be back tomorrow, and we’ll have even more fun.” Hannah nodded, trying to hide how tired she felt that day more than usual. Her arms achd from holding up the cards. Her chest felt heavy, but she didn’t want Samuel to notice.

“The last thing she wanted was for him to worry and stop coming.” “Okay,” she said, forcing brightness into her voice. “See you tomorrow, Samuel. See you tomorrow, Hannah.” Samuel waved and ran toward the wall. Hannah watched him climb up and disappear over the other side. Then she sank back against her pillows, exhausted, but happy.

Samuel jumped down from the wall and landed on the sidewalk. He was smiling, thinking about how much fun they’d had today. But his smile disappeared the moment he looked up. A woman stood right in front of him, blocking his path. Was Veronica. Her eyes went wide with shock and outrage. Her face twisted with disgust and anger.

Were you trying to jump over my fence, you filthy brat?” she shouted. Samuel froze speechless. His heart started pounding. This was Hannah’s stepmother. The one Hannah had warned him about. Before Samuel could think of an excuse, Veronica took a step closer. Her voice came out sharp and full of hate.

Get out of here right now before I call the police. She pulled out her cell phone and held it up. I’m serious. I’ll call them right now. Get moving. Samuel didn’t think twice. He grabbed his ball tightly and ran down the street as fast as he could. His heart pounded in his chest. His eyes welled up with fear.

He could hear Veronica’s angry voice behind him. And don’t you dare come back here again, you little thief. Samuel ran and ran until he couldn’t hear her voice anymore. Finally, he stopped in an alley far away, breathing hard. He sat down on the ground and hugged his ball to his chest. Tears ran down his face. Not because Veronica had been mean to him.

He was used to people being mean, but because he was afraid he would never see Hannah again. Hannah was his best friend, his only friend. What would she think when he didn’t come back tomorrow? Would she think he had abandoned her? Samuel wiped his tears with his dirty sleeve. He had to think of a way to see Hannah again. He just had to.

Meanwhile, back at the mansion, Veronica marched straight inside. She was furious. Her hands were shaking with anger. When Richard came home from work a few hours later, Veronica was waiting for him in the living room. Richard, we need to talk, she said urgently. Right now, Richard could see she was upset.

What’s wrong? Veronica acted out every detail with dramatic gestures. Honey, you won’t believe what I saw today. There was some street thug trying to jump over our fence. A dirty little boy, probably a thief looking to break into our house. Richard’s face went pale. What? Are you serious? completely serious. Veronica said, “I caught him red-handed, jumping down from our wall.

Who knows how many times he’s been doing this? He could have been watching us, planning to rob us.” “Did you call the police?” Richard asked. “I threatened to and he ran away like the little criminal he is,” Veronica said. “But Richard, this is serious. We’re not safe.” Hannah isn’t safe.

What if that boy had broken into the house? What if he had hurt someone? Richard sat down heavily on the couch. The thought of someone dangerous near his daughter made him feel sick with worry. “What should we do?” he asked. Veronica had clearly been thinking about this. “We need better security. The wall isn’t enough. We need an electric fence installed on top of it. Something that will shock anyone who tries to climb over.

An electric fence?” Richard wasn’t sure. Isn’t that a bit extreme? Extreme? Veronica’s voice rose. Richard, someone was trespassing on our property. Our daughter is sick and vulnerable in this house. We need to protect her. What if that boy comes back? What if next time he actually gets inside? Richard thought about Hannah lying weak and helpless in her bed. Veronica was right.

They needed to protect her. “Okay,” he said. “Finally, we’ll install the electric fence. I’ll call a security company tomorrow.” Veronica smiled with satisfaction. “Good. It’s the right decision. Hannah’s safety comes first. Upstairs in Hannah’s room, she waited by the window the entire next day.

She watched the tree, hoping to see Samuel climbing through the branches, but he never came. “Where are you, Samuel?” she whispered sadly. She didn’t know about Veronica catching him. She didn’t know about the electric fence being installed. All she knew was that her only friend had disappeared. And for the first time in months, Hannah felt completely alone again.

Late one evening after Richard had gone to bed, Veronica sat in the study with Dr. Johnson. The door was locked. The curtains were drawn. No one could see or hear them. Veronica poured two glasses of expensive wine and handed one to Johnson. They clinkedked their glasses together and smiled. Cold, cruel smiles.

“Everything is going perfectly,” Veronica said, taking a sip of her wine. “Richard suspects nothing.” Dr. Johnson nodded, looking very pleased with himself. Of course, he doesn’t. He trusts me completely. We’ve been friends for years. Or at least that’s what he thinks. Veronica laughed quietly. Friends? As if you ever cared about Richard. I never did, Johnson admitted.

His eyes were hard and cold. I’ve always envied him. He has everything. Money, success, respect. Meanwhile, I work hard every day as a doctor and barely make enough to live comfortably. It’s not fair. Life isn’t fair. Veronica agreed. But we’re going to make it fair for us. Once Hannah is gone and Richard is broken with grief, all his money will be ours.

They had been planning this for over a year. Ever since Veronica and Johnson had secretly started a romantic relationship behind Richard’s back. They had met at one of Richard’s business parties, and they had quickly realized they were both greedy, selfish people who wanted Richard’s fortune. The plan was simple but evil. Kill Hannah slowly using poison disguised as medicine.

make Richard so sad and broken that he couldn’t think straight, get him to sign papers that would transfer all his money to Veronica, and then disappear together to live a life of luxury. “How is the medication working?” Veronica asked. Johnson pulled out a small bottle from his medical bag.

The label said, “Vitamins for Hannah, but inside was something much more dangerous. A drug that made people very weak and sleepy. In large doses, it could put someone into a coma.” “Perfectly,” Johnson said. I’ve been increasing the dosage slowly over the past few months. That’s why Hannah keeps getting weaker and weaker.

Richard thinks it’s her blood disease getting worse, but it’s actually the poison I’ve been giving her. And the medical reports, Veronica asked, “All fake,” Johnson said proudly. “I write down that her blood counts are getting worse, that her bone marrow is failing more each day. But the truth is Hannah’s disease is actually stable.

She could live for many more years with proper treatment. But she’ll never get proper treatment. She’ll only get my poison. Veronica smiled wickedly. Richard reads those reports every night and cries. He thinks his daughter is dying naturally. He has no idea we’re killing her. The fool, Johnson said with disgust. He’s so blind with grief that he can’t see what’s right in front of him.

Veronica walked to the window and looked out at the dark garden. There’s just one problem we need to solve soon. What’s that? We need to move faster. Veronica said Hannah needs to fall into a coma soon within the next few days. Once she’s in a coma, we tell Richard there’s no hope. We convince him to let her go.

Then we inherit everything. Johnson thought about this. You’re right. We’ve been going too slowly. It’s time to increase the dosage significantly. Instead of giving her one dose of the poison per day, I’ll give her three. Within a week, she’ll be in a deep coma. Perfect. Veronica said, “And I’ll make sure Richard doesn’t interfere. I’ll give him sleeping pills and his evening tea.

He’ll sleep through the nights and we can do whatever we need to do with Hannah.” Johnson raised his glass. To our success, to Hannah’s death and to our fortune. Veronica raised her glass, too. To wealth and freedom. They clinkedked glasses again and drank, celebrating the terrible thing they were planning to do. What Veronica and Johnson didn’t know was that someone had heard everything they said.

Outside the study window, hidden in the branches of a tree, sat Samuel. He had been trying for two weeks to get back into the mansion to see Hannah. The electric fence had stopped him at first. He had touched it once and gotten a terrible shock that had knocked him to the ground. But Samuel was smart and determined. He had watched the fence carefully and noticed something.

The electricity only ran along the top of the wall. The trees were separate. If he could climb high enough in the tree outside the property, he could jump over the fence without touching it. Tonight he had finally succeeded. He had climbed the tallest tree on the street, gone out on a branch that stretched over the fence, and carefully dropped down into the garden on the other side.

He had been heading toward Hannah’s window when he heard voices coming from another window, a window on the first floor with a light on inside. Curious, Samuel had climbed a tree near that window to see who was talking so late at night. What he heard made his blood run cold. They were planning to kill Hannah. Hannah’s own stepmother and doctor.

The people who were supposed to protect her and make her better were slowly poisoning her. Samuel’s hands gripped the tree branch so hard his knuckles turned white. He wanted to burst through that window and stop them. He wanted to scream at them and tell them they were evil. But he knew that wouldn’t work. He was just a street kid.

No one would believe him over a wealthy woman and a respected doctor. He needed proof. He needed a plan. Samuel listened carefully to every word they said. He memorized everything. The poison disguised as vitamins, the fake medical reports, their plan to put Hannah in a coma, their goal to steal Richard’s money.

Finally, Veronica and Johnson finished their wine and stood up to leave. I’ll come by tomorrow morning to give Hannah the increased dosage, Johnson said. Perfect, Veronica replied. And I’ll make sure Richard is too busy with work to pay attention. They left the study, turning off the light. Samuel sat in the tree, his heart pounding.

He finally understood why Hannah had been getting sicker instead of better. It wasn’t her disease. It was murder. He had to save her. But how? 3 days later, Hannah lay in her bed feeling worse than she ever had before. Everything hurt. Her head pounded. Her stomach felt sick. She could barely keep her eyes open. “Daddy,” she called weakly. Richard rushed to her bedside.

His eyes were red from crying. “He looked like he hadn’t slept in days.” I’m here, baby, he said, taking her hand. I’m right here. I don’t feel good, Hannah whispered. Everything hurts. I know, sweetheart. I know. Richard’s voice broke. He looked at Dr. Johnson, who was standing nearby.

Isn’t there anything else we can do? Johnson shook his head sadly, but inside he was smiling. His plan was working perfectly. I’m sorry, Richard. Her body is failing. All we can do is keep her comfortable and give her the medicine to help manage her symptoms. He held up the bottle of vitamins, the bottle full of poison. “It’s time for her dose,” Johnson said.

He poured the liquid into a small cup. It was three times the normal amount, enough to push Hannah into a deep coma. “Open your mouth, Hannah,” Johnson said gently, like he was a caring doctor. Hannah was too weak to argue. She opened her mouth and Johnson poured the poison down her throat. Within minutes, Hannah’s eyes became heavy.

Her head fell back against the pillow. “Hannah, Hannah, baby?” Richard shook her gently, but she didn’t respond. “What’s happening?” Richard’s voice rose in panic. “Her body is shutting down,” Johnson said, pretending to check her pulse. “We need to get her to the hospital immediately. She’s slipping into a coma.” “No!” Richard screamed. “No, not my baby. Not my Hannah.

” Veronica stood in the corner watching with fake concern on her face. But in her heart, she was celebrating. Their plan was working. Hannah would be in a coma by tonight. And soon, very soon, all of Richard’s fortune would belong to them. Hannah was rushed to the hospital in an ambulance. Richard rode with her, holding her hand and crying.

By the time they arrived, Hannah was completely unconscious. She was taken to the intensive care unit and connected to machines. machines that breathed for her, machines that monitored her heart, machines that kept her alive. “Dr. Johnson spoke with the other hospital doctors, giving them his fake medical reports.

She has severe a plastic anemia,” he explained. “Her condition has been deteriorating for months. This coma was inevitable. The other doctors believed him. Why wouldn’t they? He was a respected physician with years of experience.” Richard sat beside Hannah’s hospital bed all night, holding her small hand. Tears streamed down his face.

“Please wake up, baby,” he whispered. “Please don’t leave me. You’re all I have.” But Hannah didn’t move. She lay still and pale with tubes and wires all around her. Veronica stood nearby, occasionally touching Richard’s shoulder in fake comfort. “Be strong, darling,” she said softly. “We have to have hope.” But she had no hope.

She wanted Hannah to die. Meanwhile, across the city, Samuel sat under a bridge, his mind racing. He had been following the ambulance earlier, running as fast as he could through the streets and had seen them take Hannah into the hospital. She was in a coma, just like Veronica and Johnson had planned. Samuel knew what he had to do. It was dangerous.

It was crazy. Adults would never believe a street kid over a doctor and a rich woman. But he had to try because Hannah was his friend, his only friend. And friends didn’t abandon each other no matter what. Samuel stood up, determination burning in his eyes. He was going to save Hannah, even if it meant risking everything.

Samuel spent the entire night thinking. He sat under the bridge, hugging his knees, trying to figure out what to do. The problem was clear. Hannah was being poisoned by the medicine Dr. Johnson was giving her. If Samuel could just stop the medicine and disconnect the machines that were pumping the poison into her body, Hannah would wake up.

But how could he get into the hospital? How could he get past security? How could he convince anyone to listen to him? Samuel knew the answer to the last question. He couldn’t. No one would believe a dirty street kid who claimed that a respected doctor was poisoning his patient, which meant Samuel would have to do this alone.

As the sun rose over the city, Samuel made his decision. He would sneak into the hospital, find Hannah’s room, and disconnect the machines himself. It was risky. It was scary, but it was Hannah’s only chance. Samuel left his hiding place under the bridge and started walking toward the hospital. His heart pounded with each step. He knew this might be the most dangerous thing he had ever done, but he also knew it was the right thing to do.

At the hospital, Richard hadn’t left Hannah’s side all night. His eyes were red and swollen from crying. His clothes were wrinkled. His hair was a mess. Veronica had gone home hours ago, claiming she needed to rest. Dr. Johnson had also left, saying he would return in the morning. Now it was just Richard and Hannah in the quiet hospital room.

The machines beeped steadily. The breathing tube made a soft whooshing sound as it pushed air into Hannah’s lungs. Richard held Hannah’s hand and talked to her even though she couldn’t hear him. Do you remember when you were 5 years old? Richard said softly. We went to the beach together. You were so excited to see the ocean.

You ran straight into the waves, laughing and splashing. You weren’t afraid of anything. Tears ran down his face. I miss that little girl. I miss your laugh. I miss your smile. Please come back to me, Hannah. Please. There was a soft knock on the door. A nurse came in to check Hannah’s vital signs. “How is she?” Richard asked desperately.

The nurse gave him a sad smile. “No change, I’m afraid, but her heart is strong. She’s fighting.” After the nurse left, Richard stood up and walked to the window. He looked out at the city, waking up below. People were walking to work. Cars were driving by. Life was going on as normal. But Richard’s life had stopped.

His whole world was in that hospital bed, not moving, not waking up. “God,” Richard whispered, pressing his forehead against the cool glass. “If you’re listening, please help my daughter. I’ll give anything. I’ll do anything. Just please let her wake up.” “Oh, Samuel stood across the street looking up at the tall building.

” He had been watching for an hour, studying how people came and went. He noticed that visitors had to stop at a front desk and show identification. Security guards stood by the doors. Nurses and doctors wore special badges. There was no way Samuel could just walk in through the front door. He needed another way.

Samuel walked around the building looking for other entrances. In the back, he found what he was looking for, a delivery entrance where trucks brought food and supplies. He watched as a delivery truck pulled up. The driver got out, opened the back doors, and started unloading boxes. A hospital worker came out to help. This was Samuel’s chance.

While the driver and hospital worker were busy talking and moving boxes, Samuel quickly and quietly climbed into the back of the truck. He hid behind some empty crates. His heart was beating so fast he thought everyone could hear it, but no one noticed him. After a few minutes, the driver closed the back doors.

Samuel was now hidden inside the truck in the loading area of the hospital. He waited in the darkness, barely breathing. He heard footsteps and voices outside. Then suddenly, the back doors opened again. Samuel pressed himself against the wall, trying to be invisible. Hospital workers came in and took more boxes, but they didn’t see the small boy hiding in the shadows.

When they finished and walked away, Samuel carefully peaked out. The coast was clear. He jumped down from the truck and found himself in a big storage room. There were shelves full of supplies, boxes stacked against walls, and a door that led deeper into the hospital. Samuel took a deep breath. He had made it inside.

Now he just had to find Hannah’s room. Samuel opened the door slowly and peeked out. He saw a long hallway with shiny floors. Nurses and doctors walked past, busy with their work. Samuel knew he looked out of place. His clothes were dirty and torn. His face was smudged with dirt. His hair was messy, but he had to try. Samuel waited until the hallway was empty, then stepped out and started walking quickly.

He tried to look like he knew where he was going, like he belonged there. He passed a sign that said intensive care unit, third floor. That’s where Hannah would be. Sick patients who needed the most care went to the intensive care unit. Samuel found the stairs and started climbing.

His legs were tired from all the walking and running he had done, but he pushed himself to keep going. When he reached the third floor, he opened the door carefully and looked out. This floor was quieter than the others. There were fewer people. The rooms had windows so nurses could look in and check on patients. Samuel walked down the hallway looking into each room. He saw old people, sick people, people covered in bandages.

And then he saw her. Room 310. Through the window, Samuel could see Hannah lying in bed. She looked so small and pale. Tubes and wires connected her to several machines. Her father sat beside her, his head in his hands. Samuel’s eyes filled with tears. His friend looked so sick, so helpless. But he was here now.

He was going to save her. Samuel looked around to make sure no one was watching. Then he took a deep breath and pushed open the door. The door opened and Richard looked up expecting to see a nurse or doctor. Instead, he saw a small dirty boy standing in the doorway. For a moment, they just stared at each other.

Then Samuel spoke, his voice shaking but determined. Sir, please listen to me. I know how to save your daughter. Richard’s mouth fell open in shock. What? Who were you? How did you get in here? My name is Samuel. I’m Hannah’s friend. Samuel stepped closer, speaking quickly. I know you don’t know me, but Hannah does. We’ve been friends for months. I used to visit her at your house. Richard’s mind was spinning.

You’re You’re the boy Veronica told me about the one who was trespassing. Yes, sir. But I wasn’t trying to steal anything. I was just visiting Hannah. She was lonely and I was lonely and we became friends. Security. Richard started to stand up. I need to call security. No, please. Samuel begged. Please just listen to me for one minute. Just one minute. Hannah’s life depends on it.

Something in Samuel’s voice made Richard pause. The boy’s eyes were desperate but honest. You have 1 minute, Richard said slowly. Talk. Samuel spoke as fast as he could, the words tumbling out. Your wife and Dr. Johnson are poisoning Hannah. They’re not trying to help her. They’re trying to kill her. I heard them talking at your house three nights ago.

They’re giving her fake medicine that’s actually poison. That’s why she keeps getting sicker. That’s why she’s in a coma now. Her real sickness isn’t that bad, but they’re making it worse on purpose so they can steal your money. Richard’s face turned white. That’s That’s insane. You’re just a child. You don’t know what you’re talking about.

I do know, Samuel insisted. I heard everything. Dr. Johnson said he’s been faking her medical reports. He said he’s been increasing the poison dosage. Your wife said they need Hannah to die so they can take all your money and run away together. Richard felt like the room was spinning. This couldn’t be true. It couldn’t be.

But even as he thought that, something in his gut twisted because hadn’t he noticed how Veronica seemed more concerned about money than about Hannah? Hadn’t he noticed how Dr. Johnson always had an excuse for why nothing was helping? Even if what you’re saying is true, and I’m not saying it is, what do you expect me to do? Richard asked. Turn off the machines.

Samuel said urgently. Stop the medicine they’re giving her. The tubes are pumping poison into her body right now. If you turn them off and just let her rest, she’ll wake up. I promise. That’s crazy, Richard said. The machines are keeping her alive. If I turn them off, she’ll die. No, sir.

That’s what they want you to think. Samuel’s eyes pleaded with him. The machines aren’t helping her. They’re killing her. Please, you have to trust me. Richard looked at his daughter, then at the boy, then back at his daughter. Could this be true? Could the two people he trusted most in the world really be trying to murder his only daughter? Before Richard could respond, the door burst open. Veronica stood there, her eyes wide with shock and fury. Behind her was Dr. Johnson.

You? Veronica screamed, pointing at Samuel. What are you doing here? Security. Security. Dr. Johnson rushed forward, his face red with anger. Get away from my patient. You crazy boy. You have no right to be here. Samuel backed up against the wall, but he kept shouting. Don’t listen to them, Mr. Richard. They’re the ones who are lying. They’re trying to kill Hannah. This boy is clearly disturbed, Dr.

Johnson said to Richard. He’s been stalking your family. He probably needs psychiatric help. Two security guards ran into the room, responding to Veronica’s shouts. Remove this child immediately. Veronica ordered. He broke into the hospital. The guards grabbed Samuel’s arms. He struggled against them, but they were much stronger. “Mr. Richard, please.

” Samuel cried out as they dragged him toward the door. “Look at the medicine bottles. Check what they’re really giving her.” “The truth is right there if you just look.” “The boy is delusional,” Dr. Johnson said calmly, though his hands were shaking slightly. Street children often develop fantasies. It’s very sad, but we can’t let it disrupt the hospital.

Richard stood frozen, his mind in chaos. Part of him wanted to believe Samuel. The boy seemed so sincere, so desperate. But another part of him couldn’t accept that his wife and his best friend would do something so evil. “Get him out!” Richard said quietly, turning away. “No!” Samuel screamed. “Mr. Richard, you have to believe me. Hannah told me about the fairy stories you read to her.

She told me about the beach when she was five. She told me how much she loves you. I’m not making this up. I’m her friend. Friends don’t lie. Richard’s head snapped around. How did this boy know about the fairy stories? How did he know about the beach? But before Richard could say anything, the guards had dragged Samuel out of the room and down the hallway.

Don’t worry, darling, Veronica said, putting her hand on Richard’s shoulder. That disturbed child is gone now. You can focus on Hannah, but Richard barely heard her. His mind was racing. Richard looked at the machine surrounding his daughter. He looked at the four bag dripping clear liquid into her veins. He looked at Dr.

Johnson who was adjusting something on one of the monitors. And for the first time, Richard started to wonder what if the boy is telling the truth. In the hallway, the security guards dragged Samuel toward the elevator. He had stopped struggling. He knew it was useless. His heart broke. He had failed. Hannah was going to die and no one believed him.

“Please,” Samuel said to the guards, tears running down his face. “Please, just check the medicine they’re giving her.” “That’s all I ask. Just check it.” “Kid, you need to stop making up stories,” one of the guards said, not unkindly. “That doctor is trying to help that little girl, not hurt her.” They reached the elevator and pressed the button. Samuel’s mind raced.

He couldn’t give up. He couldn’t let them win. When the elevator doors opened, Samuel did something desperate. He stomped hard on one guard’s foot and elbowed the other in the stomach. Both guards loosened their grip in surprise. Samuel broke free and ran. “Hey, stop!” the guards yelled, chasing after him.

But Samuel was small and fast. He had spent years running from angry shopkeepers and police officers. He knew how to disappear. He darted down a different hallway, pushed through a door marked staff only, and found himself in a stairwell. He could hear the guards heavy footsteps behind him. Samuel ran up the stairs instead of down.

The guards would expect him to try to escape the building, but Samuel wasn’t trying to escape. He was trying to get back to Hannah. Back in room 310, Richard stood by the window, staring out at nothing. His mind wouldn’t stop spinning. Veronica sat in a chair, flipping through her phone. Dr. Johnson was writing something in Hannah’s medical chart. Richard, Veronica said after a while.

You should go home and get some rest. You’ve been here all night. You look terrible. I’m not leaving, Richard said flatly. Veronica sighed dramatically. At least let me bring you some coffee and food. You need to keep your strength up. I said I’m not leaving. Dr. Johnson closed the chart and walked over to Richard. Richard, as your friend, I’m concerned about you. You’re exhausted. Grief can make people vulnerable, susceptible to crazy ideas.

Richard turned to look at him. Crazy ideas. That boy, Johnson said carefully. I hope you’re not actually considering anything, he said. It was all nonsense. The paranoid fantasies of a disturbed child. How did he know about the fairy stories? Richard asked quietly. Johnson and Veronica exchanged a quick glance. What? Johnson said.

The boy said Hannah told him about the fairy stories I read to her and the beach trip when she was five. How would he know those things? Richard, honey, Veronica said with forced patience. He probably saw an old family photo or something. Or maybe he overheard you talking. Street kids are sneaky. They spy on people.

But Richard shook his head slowly. No, those were private moments. Special moments between me and Hannah. The only way he could know about them is if Hannah told him. So, what are you saying? Veronica’s voice had an edge to it now. You think that filthy street rat was actually friends with our daughter? Yes, Richard said, turning to face her fully.

I think he was. Dr. Johnson laughed, but it sounded forced. Richard, come on. You’re not thinking clearly. Hannah has been too sick to make friends with anyone, especially some random boy from the streets. She was lonely, Richard interrupted. I knew she was lonely. She told me she had no friends.

What if? What if this boy was the one friend she had? Veronica stood up, her face flushing with anger. This is ridiculous. You’re going to believe some crazy street kid over your own wife, over your best friend. Richard looked at her carefully. Really? Looked at her and he saw something in her eyes, something cold and calculating that he had never noticed before. Or maybe he had noticed it, but he had chosen to ignore it.

I want to see Hannah’s medical records, Richard said suddenly. All of them. Every test result, every prescription, everything. Dr. Johnson’s face went pale. Richard, I don’t think that’s necessary. I want to see them now. Richard, you’re not a doctor. You won’t understand the technical details. Then explain them to me, Richard said firmly.

His voice was strong now. Certain. You’re my friend, right? So, explain everything to me in detail. Show me exactly what’s wrong with Hannah and exactly what medicine you’ve been giving her to help. Johnson and Veronica looked at each other again. This time, Richard saw the look clearly, a look of panic and conspiracy.

And in that moment, Richard knew the boy was telling the truth. His wife and his best friend had been slowly murdering his daughter. Meanwhile, Samuel had made it back to the third floor through a different stairwell. He peaked through the door window and saw the two security guards at the other end of the hallway talking to a nurse and looking around for him.

He had to move fast. Samuel slipped out of the stairwell and ran in the opposite direction toward room 310. His bare feet made no sound on the smooth floor. He reached Hannah’s room and pressed himself against the wall beside the door. He could hear voices inside. Richard’s voice and Veronica’s and Dr. Johnson’s.

They were arguing about something. Samuel’s hand touched the door handle. He knew this was it. This was his last chance to save Hannah. He took a deep breath, said a quick prayer in his head, and pushed the door open. Samuel burst through the door, breathing hard from running. All three adults turned to stare at him in shock. You again? Veronica shrieked.

How did you get back here? Security? Dr. Johnson yelled, moving toward the door. But Richard held up his hand. Wait. Everyone froze. Richard looked at Samuel. Really looked at him. The boy was dirty and thin. His clothes were torn, but his eyes his eyes were full of honesty and desperation and love. Love for Hannah. Tell me again, Richard said quietly.

Tell me everything you know. Richard, no. Veronica protested. Don’t listen to him. Quiet. Richard’s voice was like thunder. Veronica actually jumped back, startled. Richard had never yelled at her like that before. Richard turned back to Samuel. Tell me everything now. Samuel nodded, his heart pounding. He spoke quickly but clearly.

Some weeks ago, my ball went over your fence by accident. Hannah saw me from her window. We started talking. We became friends. I visited her every afternoon when you and Mrs. Veronica were gone. We played games through the window. We told each other stories. She was my best friend and I was hers. Richard’s eyes filled with tears as he listened.

She told me about the fairy stories you read to her. Samuel continued, “Her favorite was about the fairy named Moon Beam. She told me about the beach trip when she was five, how she ran into the waves and wasn’t afraid. She told me how much she loved you and how sad she was that she couldn’t play outside anymore.

” Richard put his hand over his mouth, tears streaming down his face. These were things only Hannah would know. Only Hannah could have told this boy. “Three days ago,” Samuel said, his voice shaking with emotion. I climbed the tree outside your house. I heard Mrs. Veronica and Dr. Johnson talking in a room. They said they were poisoning Hannah.

They said they were giving her fake medicine to make her sick. They said they wanted her to die so they could take all your money and run away together. Lies. Veronica screamed. All lies. Richard, he’s making this up. Am I? Samuel said, looking directly at her. Then why don’t you want Mr.

Richard to see the medical records? If you’re telling the truth, the records will prove it, right? Veronica’s face went white. Dr. Johnson stepped forward, trying to sound calm and professional. Richard, this is absurd. I’ve been your friend for 20 years. I would never. Show me the records, Richard said coldly. Show me right now or I’m calling the police. Dr.

Johnson’s confident expression cracked. Richard, you’re being irrational. You’re grieving and this boy is taking advantage. Show me the records. Richard roared. The room went silent. Dr. Johnson’s hands were shaking. He looked at Veronica, then at Richard, then at Samuel. He was trapped and he knew it.

I I don’t have them with me, Johnson said weekly. They’re in my office downstairs. Then let’s go get them, Richard said. Right now, all of us. Richard moved toward the door, but Veronica suddenly lunged forward and grabbed his arm. Richard, please. Her voice had changed. It was no longer cold and commanding. Now it was desperate and pleading. Please just listen to me. You don’t understand. I did this for us.

Richard stared at her in horror. What did you just say? Veronica realized her mistake too late. She had just admitted everything. I I mean she stammered trying to take it back, but Richard pulled his arm away from her like she was poison.

You did this? You actually poisoned my daughter? She was always in the way. Veronica burst out. Her true feelings finally showing. You spent all your time with her. All your money on her medical bills. All your attention on her. When were you ever going to think about me? About us? Richard looked at her like he was seeing a monster. She’s a child. My child.

She’s sick and innocent. And you you tried to kill her. She was going to die anyway. Veronica shouted. Her disease was going to kill her eventually. We were just speeding things up. That’s not true, Samuel yelled. Dr. Johnson said her disease was stable. He said she could live for many more years.

You were killing her just for money. Dr. Johnson moved suddenly, reaching for the four bag connected to Hannah. I won’t let you ruin everything, he snarled. But Richard was faster. He grabbed Johnson’s arm and shoved him away from the bed. Johnson stumbled and fell to the floor. Get away from my daughter, Richard shouted. The door burst open again.

This time it was the two security guards finally finding Samuel. “There he is,” one guard said, pointing at Samuel. “But Richard held up his hand.” “Officers, don’t take the boy. Arrest these two.” He pointed at Veronica and Dr. Johnson. They’ve been poisoning my daughter. Call the police. Call them now. The security guards looked confused.

They didn’t know what to believe. Veronica saw her chance. She grabbed her purse and ran for the door, pushing past one of the guards. Stop her,” Richard yelled. But Veronica was already in the hallway running toward the stairs. Dr. Johnson scrambled to his feet and tried to follow her, but Samuel stuck out his leg.

Johnson tripped and fell hard, hitting his head on the floor. He lay there dazed and groaning. One security guard ran after Veronica. The other grabbed his radio. We need police at St. Mary’s Hospital, third floor, immediately. Possible assault case. Richard turned to Samuel, his face full of grief and gratitude and confusion. You were telling the truth about everything. “Yes, sir,” Samuel said. “I would never lie about Hannah.

She’s my friend.” Richard looked at his daughter, still unconscious in the bed. “What do I do? How do I save her?” Samuel’s voice was urgent. “You have to turn off the machines, sir.” The four is pumping poison into her body right now. Dr. Johnson said so himself when I heard them talking. Her body can’t heal while they’re still poisoning her.

But what if you’re wrong? Richard’s voice cracked. “What if I turn off the machines and she dies?” “I’m not wrong, sir,” Samuel said with quiet confidence. I heard them. They said once the poison stops, she’ll wake up. Her real sickness isn’t that bad. They were just making it worse with the fake medicine. Richard stood there trembling.

This was the biggest decision of his life. trust the street boy he had just met or keep his daughter on machines that might be killing her. He looked at Hannah’s pale face. He thought about all the months she had been getting worse instead of better. Even though Johnson kept saying he was giving her the best treatment, he thought about how happy Hannah must have been to finally have a friend. This brave, loyal boy who had risked everything to save her. Richard made his decision.

With shaking hands, he reached for the machines and began turning them off one by one. The beeping stopped. The whooshing sound stopped. The room became quiet. Eerily quiet. Dr. Johnson, still on the floor holding his head, laughed bitterly. You fools. You just killed her.

Without those machines, she’ll die in minutes. Shut up, Richard said coldly. He and Samuel stood beside Hannah’s bed, watching and waiting. 1 minute passed. 2 minutes. Hannah lay completely still. Richard felt panic rising in his chest. Why isn’t she waking up? You said she would wake up. Give her time,” Samuel said, though he sounded worried, too. Her body has been poisoned for months.

She needs time to fight back. 3 minutes? 4 minutes. Dr. Johnson laughed again. I told you she’s gone. You killed your own daughter by listening to a street rat. I said, “Shut up.” Richard screamed at him. 5 minutes. Richard started to cry. Please, Hannah. Please wake up. Please don’t leave me. Samuel grabbed Hannah’s hand. Hannah, it’s me. It’s Samuel, your friend.

Remember? We played Uno together. We talked about fairies and dragons. You told me I was your best friend. Tears ran down Samuel’s dirty face. Please wake up, Hannah. Please. I didn’t come all this way just to lose you. Friends, don’t give up on each other. So, don’t you give up either. Wake up. Please wake up. 6 minutes. Nothing.

Richard collapsed in his chair, sobbing. What have I done? What have I done? Dr. Johnson smiled cruy from the floor. You believed a lying street child over trained medical professionals. That’s what you did. Samuel felt his heartbreaking. Had he been wrong? Had he misunderstood what he heard? Was Hannah really going to die? No.

Samuel whispered. No, I can’t be wrong. I heard them. I heard everything. He leaned close to Hannah’s ear and whispered desperately. Hannah, please. You have to wake up. You have to prove them wrong. You’re stronger than they think. You’re a fighter.

Remember the fairy story? Fairies only exist for those who believe in them. Well, I believe in you, Hannah. I believe you can wake up. Please believe in yourself, too. 7 minutes. And then Hannah’s finger moved. Sir. Samuel gasped, pointing. Did you see that? Her finger moved. Richard’s head shot up. He leaned over Hannah, staring at her hand. Hannah, baby, can you hear me? Hannah’s eyelids fluttered.

“She’s waking up!” Samuel shouted. “She’s really waking up.” Dr. Johnson’s face went from smug to terrified. “No, that’s impossible.” Hannah’s eyes slowly opened. They were unfocused at first, confused, she blinked several times, trying to understand where she was. “Hannah,” Richard cried, grabbing her hand. “Oh, my baby, you’re awake.

You’re really awake.” Hannah turned her head slowly toward her father’s voice. Daddy. Her voice was weak and scratchy, but it was her voice. What? What happened? Where am I? You’re in the hospital, sweetheart. But you’re okay now. You’re going to be okay. Richard was crying and laughing at the same time.

Hannah’s eyes moved around the room. She saw the machines that were now turned off. She saw the security guard by the door. She saw Dr. Johnson on the floor. And then she saw Samuel. Her face lit up with the biggest smile. “Samuel, you came?” “Of course I came,” Samuel said, tears streaming down his face. “I told you I’d never leave you alone.

Friends, don’t abandon each other.” Hannah tried to sit up, but she was too weak. Richard gently helped her, propping pillows behind her back. “I don’t understand,” Hannah said slowly. “I remember feeling so sick. Everything hurt. And then I just fell asleep. A really deep sleep. I had dreams, but they were strange and scary. You were in a coma, sweetheart, Richard said gently.

For several days, Hannah’s eyes went wide. A coma? But how did I wake up? Samuel stepped closer to the bed. Your stepmom and Dr. Johnson were poisoning you, Hannah. They were making you sick on purpose. But we turned off the machines and stopped the poison. Your body healed itself. Hannah looked shocked. She turned to look at Dr.

Johnson, who was still sitting on the floor, holding his head and looking defeated. Dr. Johnson, Hannah said in disbelief. But you were supposed to help me. You’ve been my doctor for so long. Dr. Johnson said nothing. He just looked away ashamed. And Veronica? Hannah asked quietly. She She really wanted me to die. Richard’s face hardened with anger, but he spoke gently to Hannah. Yes, baby. I’m so sorry.

I should have protected you better. I should have seen what was happening. “It’s not your fault, Daddy,” Hannah said, reaching for his hand. “You didn’t know.” The door burst open and several police officers rushed in, followed by the security guard who had chased Veronica. “We caught the woman,” one officer said.

“She was trying to escape through the parking garage. She’s in custody now.” Another officer looked at Dr. Johnson on the floor. “And this one? That’s Dr. Johnson,” Richard said, his voice cold. He conspired with my wife to poison my daughter. He’s been giving her fake medicine and writing false medical reports. I want him arrested immediately. Two officers moved forward and pulled Dr. Johnson to his feet.

They put handcuffs on his wrist. You can’t prove anything, Johnson said weekly. It’s just the word of a street kid against mine. Actually, one of the officers said, “We found quite a bit of evidence when we searched your office just now. bottles of suspicious medication, fake documents, and your computer has emails between you and Mrs. Veronica discussing the whole plan. Dr. Johnson’s face went pale.

He hadn’t deleted the emails. He had been too confident that he would never get caught. “You have the right to remain silent,” the officer began, reading Johnson his rights as they let him out of the room. Another officer approached Richard. Sir, we’ll need you to come down to the station later to give a full statement.

But first, we should have doctors examine your daughter, real doctors this time, to make sure she’s truly okay. Richard nodded. Yes, of course. Whatever she needs. The officer looked at Samuel. And you must be the young man who figured out what was happening. That was very brave of you, son. Samuel didn’t know what to say. He wasn’t used to adults praising him. He just shrugged. I just helped my friend. That’s what friends do.

The officer smiled. Well, your friend is very lucky to have you. After the police left, taking Dr. Johnson with them, the room became quiet again. It was just Richard, Hannah, Samuel, and one security guard standing by the door. Hannah looked at Samuel with tears in her eyes. “You saved my life. You risked everything to save me.

You would have done the same for me,” Samuel said simply. Hannah nodded. “Yes, I would have because you’re my best friend.” Richard looked at Samuel with an expression full of gratitude and emotion. “Son, I don’t even know how to thank you. You saved my daughter when I couldn’t. You believed in her when everyone else said there was no hope.

I just listened to what I heard,” Samuel said. “And I couldn’t let Hannah die. She’s too important.” “Where are your parents?” Richard asked gently. “I’d like to thank them, too.” Samuel looked down at his feet. “I don’t have parents, sir. They died when I was little. I live on the streets. Richard’s heart broke. This boy, this brave, loyal, wonderful boy had nothing.

No home, no family, no one to take care of him. And yet, he had risked everything to save Hannah. Not anymore, Richard said firmly. Samuel looked up, confused. Sir, you’re not living on the streets anymore, Richard said. From this moment on, you have a home with us, with me and Hannah. If you want it, that is. Samuel’s eyes went wide.

You You mean you want me to live with you? I want more than that,” Richard said, his voice thick with emotion. “I want to adopt you. I want you to be part of our family.” Hannah already thinks of you as her best friend. “I’d be honored if you would let me be your father.” Samuel couldn’t speak. Tears poured down his face.

For years, he had dreamed of having a family, a real home, someone who cared about him. And now it was really happening. “Yes,” Samuel whispered, then louder. Yes. Yes. I want that more than anything. Richard pulled Samuel into a tight hug. Samuel hugged him back, crying happy tears for the first time in years. Hannah was crying too, but she was smiling. “This is the best day ever,” she said. “My best friend is going to be my brother.

” “When Richard and Samuel finally pulled apart, Richard wiped his eyes and tried to compose himself. “There’s so much to do,” Richard said. legal paperwork, getting you proper clothes in a room of your own, enrolling you in school. School? Samuel said nervously. I’ve never been to school. Then it’ll be an adventure, Hannah said happily. We can go to school together once I get better.

I mean, a new doctor entered the room, a kind-l looking woman with gray hair. Hello, I’m Dr. Martinez. I’ve been asked to examine Hannah and make sure she’s recovering properly. May I? Richard nodded. Of course, please do whatever you need to do. Dr. Martinez spent the next 20 minutes checking Hannah carefully. She listened to her heart and lungs, checked her blood pressure, looked at her eyes and throat, and asked her many questions about how she felt.

Finally, Dr. Martinez smiled. This is remarkable. Her vital signs are actually quite good. Much better than her medical records indicated they should be. I’d like to keep her here for observation for a few days and we’ll run some proper blood tests, but honestly, I think she’s going to make a full recovery.

What about her plastic anemia? Richard asked her original disease. Dr. Martinez looked at Hannah’s old medical charts, the real ones, not the fake ones Johnson had created. According to these initial tests from when she was first diagnosed, her condition was moderate, not severe. With proper treatment and monitoring, many patients with this condition live normal, healthy lives.

She’ll need regular checkups and possibly some medication, but there’s no reason she can’t play, go to school, and do everything other children do. Richard felt a weight lift off his shoulders. So, she’s going to be okay. Yes, Dr. Martinez said with a warm smile. Your daughter is going to be just fine.

Hannah clapped her hands together weekly. Does that mean I can go outside and play and have friends? Eventually, yes. Dr. Martinez said, “We need to make sure you regain your strength first, but with time and proper care, you’ll be able to do all those things.” Hannah looked at Samuel with shining eyes. “We can play together. Really play, not just through a window.” Samuel grinned.

“I’ll teach you how to climb trees, and I’ll teach you how to read better,” Hannah said. and we can play all my board games that I never got to use. Watching them talk and laugh together, Richard felt his heart fill with joy and gratitude. His daughter was alive. She was going to recover and he had gained a son, a brave, loyal son who had saved them all.

But then Richard remembered Veronica, and his happiness dimmed slightly. He would have to deal with her, with the police, with lawyers, with the scandal that would surely follow when people learned what she and Johnson had done. It would be difficult, painful, messy.

But Richard didn’t care because his daughter was safe. That was all that mattered. 3 weeks later, the courtroom was packed with people. Reporters sat in the back rows, notebooks ready. Richard sat in the front with Samuel and Hannah beside him. Hannah looked much healthier now. There was color in her cheeks, and she could sit up without getting tired.

The judge, a stern woman with gray hair and glasses, looked down at Veronica and Dr. Johnson, who stood before her in handcuffs. “This court has heard all the evidence,” the judge said in a strong, clear voice. Medical records were examined. Computer files were recovered. Expert witnesses testified. “The facts are clear and disturbing.” Veronica stared at the floor.

She looked nothing like the elegant, confident woman she once was. Her expensive clothes were gone, replaced by a plain prison uniform. Her perfectly styled hair was messy. Dr. Johnson stood with his shoulders slumped. All his pride and arrogance had disappeared. Mrs. Veronica Thompson and Dr.

Marcus Johnson, the judge continued, “You both conspired to murder an innocent person through systematic poisoning. You falsified medical records. You abused a position of trust. You did all of this motivated purely by greed, to steal money that did not belong to you.” The judge’s voice grew harder. This court finds you both guilty of attempted murder, fraud, conspiracy, and child endangerment.

Hannah squeezed Samuel’s hand. Samuel squeezed back. Mrs. Thompson, you are sentenced to 25 years in prison without possibility of parole for 15 years. Veronica’s lawyer stood up to protest, but the judge raised her hand for silence. Dr. Johnson, you violated every oath you took as a physician. You betrayed your patient, your profession, and your friend.

You are sentenced to 30 years in prison without possibility of parole for 20 years. Additionally, your medical license is permanently revoked. Dr. Johnson’s face crumpled. He finally looked at Richard, his eyes full of regret. Richard, I’m sorry. I’m so sorry. I don’t know what happened to me. The greed, it just consumed me. Richard stared back at him coldly. You tried to kill my daughter. There’s nothing you can say that will ever make that right.

Dr. Johnson nodded slowly and looked away. The baiffs led both of them out of the courtroom. Veronica didn’t look back, but as Dr. Johnson passed Richard’s row, he whispered one more time, “I’m sorry.” But Richard had already turned away. Outside the courthouse, reporters surrounded them with cameras and microphones. “Mr.

Thompson, how does it feel to see justice served? Are you relieved it’s over? What do you want to say to the young boy who saved your daughter?” Richard held up his hand. I’ll make one statement and then my family needs privacy to heal, the reporters quieted down.

My daughter was almost taken from me by people I trusted, Richard said clearly. But she was saved by a boy who had nothing. No home, no family, no reason to risk his life for us except friendship and love. Samuel taught me what true courage and loyalty look like. I’m proud to say that he is now my son. My family has been through something terrible, but we came out stronger. That’s all I have to say. Thank you.

Richard took Hannah’s and Samuel’s hands and they walked to the car together. Two months later, Samuel stood nervously outside the school building. He wore new clothes, a clean blue shirt, and khaki pants. His hair was freshly cut. He carried a backpack full of new school supplies.

“You’re going to be fine,” Richard said, putting his hand on Samuel’s shoulder. “The teachers know you’re catching up. They’ll help you. What if the other kids make fun of me?” Samuel asked quietly. What if they find out I used to live on the streets? Hannah, who was standing beside him, rolled her eyes? Then I’ll tell them you’re the bravest person I know.

And if they still make fun of you, I’ll defend you. Samuel smiled a little. Hannah was still getting her strength back, but her spirit was as strong as ever. Remember, Richard said, “You don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Just be yourself. That’s more than enough.” Samuel took a deep breath and nodded. Okay, I’m ready. Hannah grabbed his hand