Michael took a deep breath, trying to steady his racing heart. He knew he had to approach this situation with caution. Bursting in could frighten both Gloria and Emily, possibly escalating the situation. He needed to be composed, to find out exactly what was happening before taking action.

With quiet determination, Michael pushed the door open wider and stepped into the nursery. Gloria looked up, startled, her eyes widening in surprise. For a split second, guilt flashed across her face before she composed herself and smiled nervously.

“Mr. Whitmore,” Gloria stammered, quickly setting the jar aside. “I didn’t expect you back so soon.”

Michael ignored her greeting, his eyes fixed on the jar. “What are you feeding her, Gloria?” he asked, his voice as calm as he could manage.

Gloria hesitated, glancing at the jar as if contemplating a lie. “It’s…it’s just some homemade baby food. I thought it would be a nice change for Emily.”

Michael stepped closer, his gaze never leaving hers. “Homemade?” he repeated, skepticism lacing his tone. “Why didn’t you use the food prepared by the nutritionist?”

Gloria’s hands fidgeted in her lap. “I-I thought she might like something different,” she explained, though her voice wavered. “It’s completely safe, I promise.”

Michael crouched down beside Emily, his eyes softening as he looked at his daughter. She seemed well, her big eyes blinking up at him with innocent curiosity. But the jar gnawed at his mind like a persistent itch. What if there was more to this than Gloria was admitting?

“I’m going to need more than just your word, Gloria,” he said firmly, standing up again. “Do you mind if I take this to be tested? Just to be sure?”

Gloria’s face paled, and for a moment, she looked as if she might protest. But then her shoulders slumped, and she nodded. “Of course, Mr. Whitmore. I understand.”

Michael picked up the jar, his decision made. He would have its contents analyzed first thing in the morning. But as he looked at Gloria, he felt a pang of sympathy. Perhaps she truly meant no harm. Or perhaps she was hiding something more sinister. Either way, he couldn’t take any risks with Emily’s well-being.

“I trust you’ll understand if I ask you to take a few days off,” Michael said, his tone leaving no room for negotiation. “I’ll handle things here until we get to the bottom of this.”

Gloria nodded, her eyes avoiding his. “Yes, Mr. Whitmore. I’m truly sorry if I’ve caused any concern.”

As she left the room, Michael’s gaze lingered on Emily. His heart ached with the weight of his responsibility. He had to protect her, no matter the cost. As he held her close, her tiny fingers curled around his, a fierce determination settled within him.

This was his daughter, his flesh and blood. And he would ensure her safety, come what may. As he kissed her forehead, he vowed to uncover the truth behind Gloria’s actions. Even if it meant unraveling secrets he never imagined existed within his own home.