Benjamin sat across from his daughter, Alicent, in Danburry's Ice Cream Shop, her favorite spot in the world. The warm, familiar scent of vanilla and chocolate floated in the air, stirring memories of countless visits. The place held a special significance for their family, a sanctuary of happy moments. Alicent was beaming, her bright blue eyes shining with pride as she attacked her sundae with glee. This was her reward for winning first place in the school painting competition.
“Did you see Mrs. Palmer’s face when she saw my painting, Daddy?” Alice giggled between bites, waving her spoon like a magic wand. “She said it was the best one she’s ever seen!”
Benjamin smiled warmly, his eyes filled with admiration. “I’m not surprised, Alie. You’ve got talent. That sunset painting? It was incredible. You should be proud.”
Alicent grinned wider, but then she paused, her spoon hovering over her half-melted ice cream. Her expression softened, a flicker of curiosity crossing her face. “ why isn’t Mom here with us?”
The question hit Benjamin harder than he expected. His smile faltered briefly before he quickly composed himself. “Well, sweetheart, you know your mom’s an emergency department doctor. She has lots of shifts, especially when people need help. She's out there saving lives.”
Alice’s face grew more thoughtful, her small brow furrowed. “But doesn’t she miss us?”
Benjamin leaned closer, wiping a bit of ice cream off her cheek. “Of course, she does, Alie. She misses you every minute. But saving people is really important work. Just like your painting won first place, she’s out there winning her own kind of competitions, making people better.”
That seemed to satisfy Alice, her bright smile returning. She scooped another spoonful of ice cream. “Okay, Daddy. I’ll make sure to show her my painting when she comes home.”
“Definitely,” Benjamin said, feeling the warm glow of the moment return.
As they finished their treats and stepped out of the shop, the cool evening breeze met them. Benjamin held Alice’s hand as they walked toward the car, the quiet of the night feeling peaceful. The moon bathed the parking lot in soft, silvery light, making everything seem calm and perfect.
But then a man, frantic and holding a child in his arms, stumbled toward them.
“Mr. Grant! Please—wait!” The man’s voice trembled with urgency. He was disheveled, his clothes wrinkled and sweat dripping down his forehead. The boy in his arms, who couldn’t have been much older than Alice, was limp and unresponsive. His limbs were stiff, his head drooped to one side, and small, jerky spasms ran through his fragile body. His wide eyes stared vacantly, and a soft, guttural moan escaped his mouth.
The man swallowed hard, panic clear in his eyes. “I’m Jacob Gibson. This is my son, Jordan. He... he’s one of the kids affected by NeuraGen’s fertility drug. I’ve been trying to reach you. Please, you have to help us.”
Benjamin’s expression immediately hardened. He instinctively pulled Alice closer to him. “I’m sorry, but this isn’t my concern,” he said, his voice cold and detached. “I’m out with my daughter right now. You can schedule a meeting during my office hours if you need legal counsel.”
Jacob’s face contorted with desperation, and he stepped in front of Benjamin, blocking his path. “Please! You know what NeuraGen’s doing. They’re responsible for this!” He gestured helplessly to his son, his voice breaking. “The drug they gave us—NeuraGen’s drug—caused this! My son will never have a normal life because of them. We’re drowning in medical bills, the legal fees... I can’t keep up. You can help us, Mr. Grant. Please, I’m begging you.”
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Heaven
Fantasigenre- Fantasy/Medicolegal Drama A lawyer is send back to earth after his death to full fill his promises.
