Rafe, the child is pitiful, sure

Rafe, the child is pitiful, sure. But the Vale family can't just accept anyone. I'm not just anyone. Mommy said I could only come to Rafe Vale. Where is your mom right now? Mommy's asleep. The sitting room went still. Where is she sleeping? A white building. Aunt Janet said Mommy was tired. She needs a long sleep. She didn't know it was a hospital room. Or that it was a death certificate. She only remembered Lily's cold hand on her head: Mabel, from now on you have to eat by yourself. If you have nothing to eat, go to the Vales. Find Rafe Vale. He owes you. Mabel didn't say any of that out loud. She just held the rabbit tighter. Rafe clenched his fists. Gideon sat in the armchair. He watched the child. Arrange a DNA test. Now. Dad, it's late. It's not late. Either we've got a new Vale or someone's using a kid to play us. Either way, it's serious. Luca Vale walked over from the far end of the table. He was the old godfather's youngest son. The mob's lawyer. No one knew his rules of justice. He killed with a smile. He picked up the receipt and read it. I'll contact the lab. Mabel heard the word test and got a little nervous. Does it hurt? They take a small sample from inside your cheek. Mabel looked even more lost. Luca rephrased. Sweetheart, just a little swab in your mouth. It won't hurt. Will it break? Rafe looked at her for a moment, his gaze softening: When it's done, I'll get you formula. The room fell silent. All eyes turned to him. Rafe paused for a moment himself. That had come out wrong. Mabel, though, smile happily. Just one can. It's expensive. The butler brought a cup of warm milk and a small bowl of soup. Mabel saw the soup and her eyes lit up. Can I eat? Rafe nodded. She picked up the spoon and ate small, slow bites. Rafe watched her scrape the bottom of the bowl twice. Sandra stood in the doorway. She's just a kid. Whoever coached her really put in the work. Mabel looked up. Mommy taught me not to waste food. Did that take a lot of work too? Sandra's smile thinned slightly. Gideon glanced at her. Sandra said nothing more. The DNA team arrived near midnight. Mabel scrunched up her nose as the swab touched her cheek. Done? All done. Mabel let out a small breath. She turned to look at Rafe. Does Daddy have to do it too? Yes. Mabel watched with great attention. When he was done, she asked very quietly: Did it hurt? No. Then you're a little braver than me. Luca laughed under his breath and bent to seal the sample bag. Afterward, Mabel was taken to a guest room downstairs. Miss Mabel, you can sleep now. Mister, will I still be here tomorrow? The butler had no answer. Rafe walked in through the doorway. Yes. So when I wake up I won't be outside the front door? You won't. Mabel only curled up in a small corner of the bed. Sleep in the middle. I'm afraid of wrinkling it. Sheets can be changed. But Mommy said don't touch other people's things without asking. The Vale estate is not other people's home.