142 A sickness

“We will see if he was available, but I have the check for the director. I thought you would like to see the good work that the gala is going to do.” Jackson pulls the envelope from his jacket’s inner pocket and hand it to Monica. Slowly, she takes it with a question in her eyes. “I don’t need to see it. I’m sure the House is doing right by the orphanage.” “You would be surprised what they can come up with, but I want you to see.” Jackson doesn't explains, but she opens the flap of the envelope and peeks at the check. “Sweet Baby Yoda . . . that’s a lot of zeroes.” “It’s a start,” Jackson agrees as he parks. Inside, they were ushered to Madame Brittanie’s office. She was an excellent director—good-hearted, cares about the children, and often works miracles with a paltry budget, so he trusts that she will be a good steward of these funds. “Monsieur Corbin, what a pleasant surprise!” she exclaims, standing to shaking his hand.

“Lovely to see you as well. May I introduce Mademoiselle M