Ch: 14 [Fall through the gaps]

As the taxi made its way to my second office, I couldn't help but think about the events that had unfolded earlier. Meeting Sam and Julia, and witnessing their dire circumstances, reminded me of the harsh realities faced by many in the world. It was a stark contrast to the superhero battles and extraordinary events that often dominated my thoughts.

Arriving at the location, I paid the taxi fare and stepped out onto the bustling street. The sounds of traffic and people going about their day filled the air, a stark contrast to the quiet desperation I had just encountered. I led Sam inside the building and made my way to Gwen's office.

I noticed the door was slightly ajar. I gently pushed it open, and there she was, sitting behind her desk, engrossed in her work. The familiar sight brought a sense of comfort amidst the chaos that had unfolded earlier.

"Gwen," I called out softly, not wanting to startle her.

She looked up from her work, her face lighting up with a smile when she saw me. "Oh, hey! Boss. How was your morning?"

Before I could answer, her eyes fell upon Sam, who was standing beside me, looking apprehensive and shy.

"Oh, who's this little guy?" Gwen asked, her tone warm and welcoming.

I introduced Sam to Gwen, explaining his situation and the need for a safe place for him while his sister received medical treatment. Gwen's expression turned sympathetic, and she immediately put aside her work, giving her full attention to Sam.

"Hey there, Sam. My name's Gwen. You're safe here with us. How about we find you a comfortable place to rest while we take care of everything?" Gwen said, her voice gentle and reassuring.

Sam nodded hesitantly, still holding onto my hand tightly. I squeezed his hand gently and reassured him, "It's okay, Sam. Gwen is a good person, and she will make sure you're taken care of. I'll be nearby if you need anything, alright?"

Sam looked up at me, his eyes reflecting a mix of gratitude and trust. "Thank you, sir. Thank you for everything."

"Now, now... Enough thanks. Take a bath and eat anything you want. This is one of my restaurants so, no holding back. Meanwhile, I will take care of your sister," I said as I ruffled his hair a bit with a reassuring smile, "Gwen..." I nodded at her.

Gwen nodded in understanding and gestured for Sam to follow her. "Come on, Sam. Let's get you settled in and make sure you have everything you need." She led him towards a comfortable lounge area where he could relax and find some respite from the difficult circumstances he had faced.

Now, the matter at hand, I decided to pay the hospital they took Julia a visit.

---

Leaving Sam in Gwen's capable hands, I made my way to the hospital where Julia had been taken. I hailed another taxi and provided the address to the driver, my mind filled with thoughts of the young girl's well-being.

Arriving at the hospital, I stepped out of the taxi and entered the bustling facility. The sterile scent of disinfectant filled the air as doctors, nurses, and patients moved about, each with their own stories and struggles.

Approaching the reception desk, I politely asked about Julia Weller, explaining that I was there to check on her. The receptionist took a moment to look up the information and then directed me to the appropriate ward.

As I made my way down the corridors, I couldn't help but feel a sense of anticipation and concern. I hoped that Julia's condition had stabilized and that she was receiving the care she needed.

Upon reaching her ward, I saw Julia lying in a hospital bed, connected to various monitors and IV lines. Her face appeared paler than before, and she seemed to be sleeping peacefully. I approached her bedside quietly, not wanting to disturb her rest.

A nurse noticed my presence and approached me, a kind smile on her face. "Are you her father?"

"I am her guardian," I replied, returning her smile. "How is she doing? Is there any improvement?"

The nurse sighed, her expression reflecting the gravity of the situation. "We believe she has been malnourished for some time, which has weakened her immune system. She also has signs of physical abuse. It's heartbreaking, really."

I felt a surge of anger and sadness hearing about Julia's condition. It was heart-wrenching to think of the hardships she and her brother had endured on the streets.

"Thank you for taking care of her," I said to the nurse, my voice filled with gratitude. "Please ensure she receives the best possible care, and let me know if there's anything I can do to help."

The nurse nodded, appreciating my concern. "We will do everything we can for her. She's stable for now, but she needs time to recover. We've started her on medication and will closely monitor her progress."

"I'll cover all the medical expenses. I don't want money to be an obstacle in providing the best care for her," I stated firmly, not wanting the hospital staff to hesitate in giving Julia the treatment she needed.

The nurse looked surprised but nodded in agreement. "That's very generous of you, sir. We'll make sure she receives the best care."

"When will she wake up?" I asked, looking at her weak body.

"Considering her condition, maybe 6 to 7 hours tops," The nurse replied.

"Alright..."

The nurse left the room.

As I stood by Julia's bedside, I couldn't help but think about the lives intertwined with extraordinary events, such as the Lizard-Symbiote situation, and the lives of those like Sam and Julia, who were struggling to survive in the shadows of the city. My encounter with the homeless siblings had brought the harsh reality of the world to the forefront of my mind.

"Hey, there, little girl," I whispered as I touched her head, "You better get well soon. In the meantime, I will make sure no one ever hurts you again."

I left the room with a heavy heart and anger. My gravity power is swirling within me, waiting to burst out. If I lose my focus for a moment, I might end up destroying this entire hospital.

I remember Sam saying that the authorities threw them out and that she got fired from work. It has to be either one of them or both that hurt her. But, I need more information. I called Gwen.

After a few rings, she picked up the call.

"Hey, boss. Is everything alright?" Gwen's voice came through the phone, her concern evident.

"I just visited Julia at the hospital," I said, my tone heavy with emotion. "She's in a bad state, Gwen. Malnourished, physically abused... It's heartbreaking to see what these kids have been through."

"What? Physical abuse?"

"Yeah," I replied, my voice filled with anger. "The nurse mentioned signs of physical abuse. It's clear that Julia and Sam have been through a lot. I want to find out who did this to them. Talk to Sam, find out if he knows anything. I need to know the name of the mall she used to work. Meanwhile, I will look around the place I found them. Someone must have seen something."

"I'm on it, boss," Gwen responded, her voice determined. "I'll talk to Sam and try to gather as much information as possible. Just, don't do anything reckless."

"That will depend on the situation," I replied before disconnecting the call. Then I made my way toward the place I first found them.

Maybe this is my calling... A signal to step up and do some difference.

---

As I walked back to the location where I had initially encountered Sam and Julia, my mind raced with thoughts and emotions. The anger and determination to find those responsible for hurting the siblings fueled my steps. I knew I had to tread carefully and gather any information that could lead to justice for Sam and Julia.

Reaching the area, I looked around, taking in the surroundings. It was a busy part of the city, filled with shops, restaurants, and bustling crowds. I approached a few shopkeepers and locals, asking if they had seen or heard anything regarding the situation with Sam and Julia.

Some people seemed hesitant to speak, while others were sympathetic but claimed to be unaware of the details. However, one older woman who ran a small convenience store seemed more forthcoming. She had noticed Sam and Julia in the area and shared her observations.

"I've seen those kids around. They seemed like good kids, always polite," the woman said, her voice filled with concern. "They used to come by my store sometimes, buying the cheapest snacks. They never caused any trouble. It's a shame what they've been through."

"Do you know anything about their friends or anyone close to them or who might have hurt them?" I asked, trying to gather as much information as possible.

The woman shook her head sadly. "I'm afraid I don't know much about their friends. They were always alone, trying to make ends meet. As for who hurt them, I can't say for sure. But there are some rough characters in this area. They prey on the vulnerable, taking advantage of those who can't defend themselves."

Her words confirmed my suspicions. It seemed likely that Sam and Julia had fallen victim to the cruelty of those who exploited their vulnerable situation. My anger burned brighter, but I knew I had to channel it into constructive action.

"Aren't the authorities or the heroes doing anything about them?" I asked.

The woman sighed, looking somewhat resigned. "Do you really think the police really care about the homeless? Those goons often bribe the patrol officers. Besides, who would care if a couple of homeless disappear? It's a common occurrence in this city. As for the heroes, they tend to focus on more high-profile cases and big villains. Unfortunately, cases like these often fall through the gaps."

"I see. I will disturb you with one last question, where can I find these goons?" I asked.

********

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