Detective Miller walked over to Daniel, taking out a small notepad to record the initial statement while the paramedics checked Sophie's vitals on the sun lounger.
Detective Miller: She'll be facing attempted murder charges, Mr. Sterling. With that security video and the financial decoding drive you mentioned, the District Attorney will likely deny bail at the arraignment tomorrow morning.
Daniel: Thank you, Detective. Make sure the financial crimes division gets a copy of that micro-SD card. There are millions of dollars in stolen trust funds listed in those ledger files.
Detective Miller: We'll freeze all linked accounts before the bank closes today. You and your niece have full protection from our department.
Daniel: I appreciate everything, Miller. Thank you for getting here so fast.
The detective tipped his hat and walked back toward his vehicle, leaving the pool deck quiet and peaceful under the Texas sky. The paramedics finished wrapping Sophie in a fresh, warm blanket, handing her back into Daniel's arms with a reassuring smile.
Paramedic: Her lungs are clear, sir. No water in her chest. She's just a little cold and frightened, but she's going to be completely fine.
Daniel: Thank you so much.
Daniel carried Sophie over to the edge of the pool, picking up the silver Great Seal necklace from the stone ledge. He wiped the water off the metal casing and gently clasped it around the little girl's neck.
Sophie: Mommy's necklace...
Daniel: That's right, sweetie. It's yours now, and nobody is ever going to take it away from you again.
Sophie: Are we staying in the big house with the pool, Uncle Daniel?
Daniel: Yes, Sophie. This is your home now. Your mother made sure of it, and I'm going to make sure you grow up safe, happy, and loved.
Sophie wrapped her small arms around Daniel's neck, resting her head against his shoulder as the quiet peace of the afternoon settled over the Dallas estate. The dark shadows of greed and deception were finally gone, replaced by the bright promise of a safe future for the true heir of the Sterling family.