After the intense meeting with Carina and Jack, Maya heads to a separate meeting with the detectives. She arrives at the precinct with a sense of urgency and determination, eager to get more clarity on the next steps. The detectives, already briefed on the latest developments, greet her in a conference room.

"Thank you for meeting with us, Maya," Detective Harris begins, her tone professional but understanding. "We've reviewed Sarah's confession and the evidence provided. The information she's given us is substantial enough to secure a conviction for the individual who murdered Cecil."

Maya nods, relieved but still concerned. "That's good to hear. But what about Sarah? Can charges be brought against her now?"

Detective Harris exchanges a look with her colleague, Detective Lee, before responding. "Not yet. We still need corroboration on the details Sarah provided about the financial discrepancies and her motive behind targeting you. Her statements alone aren't enough to secure charges at this point. We need additional evidence or witnesses to back up her claims and solidify the case against her."

Maya's frustration is evident. "So what are our options? How can we expedite this?"

Detective Lee speaks up, "We're currently working to track down more evidence and interview potential witnesses who might have information about Sarah's involvement. We're also looking into financial records and other sources that could support her claims. The process will take some time, but we're pushing as hard as we can."

Maya takes a deep breath, trying to manage her frustration. "I understand. I just want to make sure everything is being done to hold Sarah accountable and protect our businesses from any fallout."

Detective Harris nods reassuringly. "Rest assured, Maya, we're fully committed to this investigation. We'll keep you updated on any new developments and will work closely with you to ensure that all aspects of the case are thoroughly addressed."

Detective Harris delivers a crucial piece of information. "Maya, before you go, there's something important we need to discuss."

Maya turns back, her curiosity piqued. "What is it?"

Detective Harris takes a moment to choose her words carefully. "We'll be pulling Lane and Vincenzo in for questioning soon. We believe their involvement in the financial discrepancies and the broader scheme needs to be thoroughly investigated. However, we need you to keep this confidential. It's crucial that they don't get any advance warning about our plans."

Maya's eyes widen with concern. "You want me to keep this from them? How am I supposed to do that without raising suspicion?"

Detective Lee reassures her. "We understand this is a delicate situation. The best course of action is to maintain your usual interactions with them and avoid any mention of our investigation. Any indication that they might be questioned could compromise our efforts."

Maya nods, absorbing the gravity of the situation. "I understand. I'll make sure not to mention anything about the investigation."

Detective Harris adds, "Thank you, Maya. We'll be in touch with any updates. Your cooperation is vital to ensuring this case progresses smoothly."

With a final nod, Maya leaves the precinct, her mind already racing with the implications of this new development. She knows she must navigate the situation carefully to avoid tipping off her father and Carina's father, while also ensuring that the investigation proceeds without interference.

— — —

Lucia's baby shower for Carina is a grand affair, filled with joy and celebration. The event takes place at a beautifully decorated venue, adorned with soft pastel colors and elegant floral arrangements. The atmosphere is warm and welcoming, as friends and family gather to celebrate the impending arrival of Carina and Maya's baby.

Vic and Gabrielle are among the first to arrive, their excitement evident as they embrace Carina and Maya. Vic, always a vibrant presence, exudes enthusiasm while Gabrielle is the epitome of grace, both of them eager to shower Carina with love and well-wishes.

Jo and Jack arrive next, bringing a sense of camaraderie and support. Jo, as Carina's OBGYN and friend, has been a pillar of support throughout the pregnancy, and her presence at the shower is a testament to their close bond. Jack, ever the attentive friend and business partner, is there to share in the celebration and lend his support.

Andy makes a heartfelt entrance, his caring nature and warmth adding a special touch to the gathering. As a longtime friend of Maya, his presence is a comforting reminder of their shared history and unwavering support.

The room is filled with coworkers and friends, all eager to celebrate Carina and Maya. The mingling of familiar faces and new acquaintances creates a lively atmosphere, and the air is filled with laughter, conversation, and the clinking of glasses.

Lucia, radiant and proud, plays the role of gracious host, ensuring that everything is perfect for her daughter's special day. She takes the time to personally thank each guest, making sure they feel appreciated for their part in celebrating this milestone.

Carina, glowing with happiness, is the center of attention as she opens gifts and shares in the joyous occasion with her loved ones. Maya, by her side, is equally radiant, her pride and excitement palpable as she watches Carina bask in the love and support of their community.

Maya and Jack find a quiet corner at the baby shower to have a private conversation about the upcoming arrival of Maya and Carina's baby. As the festivities continue around them, they reflect on the changes and challenges that lie ahead.

Maya, her expression a mix of excitement and concern, turns to Jack. "I can't believe how quickly everything is moving. We're going to be parents soon. It feels like just yesterday we were working on the merger, and now we're here, preparing for a baby."

Jack, ever the supportive friend, nods with a smile. "It's incredible how fast time flies. And you're handling it all so well. I'm really impressed with how you've managed everything, from the merger to the renovations and everything in between."

Maya takes a deep breath. "I've been trying to stay focused, but there's so much to think about. Carina's been amazing through all of this, but I can't help but worry about what's coming next. I want to make sure we're fully prepared, both personally and professionally."

Jack raises an eyebrow. "Have you had any more thoughts about how to balance everything once the baby arrives? You've already got a lot on your plate."

Maya nods thoughtfully. "Yes, I've been thinking a lot about that. We're planning to bring in additional support, and I want to make sure we have a solid plan in place for when things get overwhelming. It's important to me that Carina and the baby have everything they need, and that I'm there for them, too."

Jack smiles reassuringly. "You're doing all the right things. It's natural to feel a bit overwhelmed, but you've got a strong support system in place. And remember, you don't have to do it all on your own. We're all here to help."

Maya's gaze softens. "Thanks, Jack. It means a lot to have your support. I just want to make sure we can create the best possible environment for our baby."

Jack claps Maya on the shoulder. "You and Carina are going to be fantastic parents. Just keep focusing on what matters most, and everything else will fall into place."

Lane and Vincenzo's unexpected arrival at the baby shower creates a tense atmosphere. Maya and Jack, noticing their presence outside, quickly move to intercept them before they can disrupt the celebration.

Maya approaches them, her demeanor calm but firm. "What are you doing here?" she demands.

Lane's expression is a mix of anger and defiance. "We came to see our daughter and daughter-in-law. We have a right to be here, and this is important for family."

Jack steps in, his voice steady. "This is a private event, and you're not welcome right now. You need to leave."

Vincenzo's frustration is palpable. "We're not going anywhere until we have a chance to talk. We deserve an explanation."

Maya crosses her arms, her voice edged with irritation. "This isn't the time or place for this. We're celebrating something important, and your presence here only brings unnecessary stress."

Lane's eyes narrow. "This is about the future of our families and our businesses. We have every right to be concerned."

Jack's voice rises. "Concern is one thing, but causing a scene at a baby shower is unacceptable. You need to leave now, or we'll have to call security."

Lane's frustration boils over. "You think you can just shut us out and keep us away from our grandchild? This is about more than just you."

Maya's face hardens. "This is not just about us. It's about protecting our family and ensuring that everything remains positive for the baby. You've already caused enough disruption."

As the argument intensifies, Carina, sensing the commotion, comes over. Her face shows a mix of worry and resolve. "What's going on?"

Maya quickly explains. "Lane and Vincenzo showed up unannounced and are causing a scene. We're trying to handle it without letting it ruin the celebration."

Carina's expression shifts to one of determination. "We've already been through enough. They need to leave."

As the argument between Maya, Jack, Lane, and Vincenzo reaches its peak, the situation escalates further when the detectives arrive unexpectedly. The sound of sirens and the sight of uniformed officers immediately grab everyone's attention.

Lane's face contorts with anger and shock as the detectives approach. "What is this? You can't do this!" he shouts.

The lead detective steps forward, addressing Lane and Vincenzo with a firm tone. "Lane Bishop, Vincenzo DeLuca, you are both under arrest. We have warrants for your arrest related to the ongoing investigation into financial discrepancies and other criminal activities."

Carina and Maya watch in stunned silence, their earlier tension giving way to disbelief. Jack looks equally taken aback, his eyes darting between the detectives and the two men being cuffed.

Lane's voice rises in panic. "Maya! Call my lawyer! Get me out of here!"

Maya, still processing the sudden turn of events, finally finds her voice. "I—I don't even know what's happening. This was not supposed to happen today."

Carina, her hand gripping Maya's arm tightly, tries to stay calm. "Maya, do you know what this means?"

Before Maya can respond, Vincenzo, now handcuffed, glares at Jack. "This is all your doing, isn't it?"

Jack remains stoic, his face a mask of calm. "I don't have anything to do with this. This is between you and the law."

The detectives continue to escort Lane and Vincenzo out, their protests growing fainter as they are led away. Maya watches, her emotions a tangled mix of shock, fear, and a grim sense of relief.

As the door closes behind the detectives and the two men, the room falls into a heavy silence. The guests, initially caught up in the drama, begin to murmur amongst themselves, their celebrations halted by the unexpected arrest.

Maya turns to Jack and Carina, her voice trembling slightly. "I didn't expect this. We need to process everything that's happened and figure out the next steps."

Jack nods, his expression serious. "We'll need to stay informed about the legal proceedings and ensure that the businesses remain stable during this time."

Carina, still holding Maya's hand, looks around at the guests. "Let's try to salvage what's left of the day. We need to focus on the positive, especially with everything else going on."

As the tension from the earlier confrontation starts to ebb, Maya and Carina decide to focus on enjoying their baby shower. They join their guests who are gathered around for a baby shower game designed to lighten the mood and bring some cheer to the event.

The game, a classic baby shower staple, is a "Baby Trivia Quiz." Maya and Carina have prepared a set of fun and light-hearted questions about pregnancy, parenting, and baby facts. The guests are divided into teams, and each team takes turns answering questions for points.

Carina, despite her earlier worries, starts to smile as she watches everyone get into the spirit of the game. She's surrounded by friends and family, their laughter and enthusiasm helping to lift her mood.

Maya, though still processing the earlier events, joins in with her usual energy. She helps read out the questions and cheer on the teams. The room fills with laughter as some of the answers are hilariously wrong, and others show off just how much knowledge the guests have about babies and parenting.

Jo, playing on one of the teams, is particularly competitive, while Gabrielle uses her charm to help her team score extra points. Andy and Vic share a playful rivalry, each trying to outdo the other with their answers.

As the game continues, Maya and Carina take a moment to look around at their friends and family, feeling a sense of gratitude despite the earlier chaos. The game serves as a welcome distraction, helping to bring some normalcy and joy to the day.

When the game ends, Maya and Carina take a few moments to thank everyone for coming and for their support. They express their appreciation for their friends and family, acknowledging how much their presence means to them, especially during such a tumultuous time.

The party gradually returns to its celebratory tone, with guests mingling, enjoying the food, and sharing stories. Maya and Carina, while still concerned about the legal troubles ahead, allow themselves to savor the happiness and support surrounding them, embracing the joy of the day and the anticipation of their new arrival.

— — —

The next day, Maya heads to the county jail to visit her father, Lane, who is being held in custody before his scheduled hearing later in the day. The mood is tense as she navigates the sterile, cold corridors of the facility. When she finally enters the visiting room, Lane is already seated at the metal table, his demeanor a mix of frustration and vulnerability.

Lane's eyes meet Maya's as she approaches, and he rises to his feet, a flicker of hope crossing his face. "Maya, I'm glad you came. I need you to be my lawyer," he says, his voice strained but urgent.

Maya takes a seat across from him, maintaining a calm and composed exterior despite the whirlwind of emotions inside. "Dad, I can't be your lawyer," she says firmly, her voice steady but her heart heavy. "Given everything that's happened, it would be impossible for me to represent you impartially."

Lane's face falls, but he quickly recovers, his expression becoming one of frustration and desperation. "You have to understand, Maya, this is serious. I need someone who knows me, who can fight for me."

Maya takes a deep breath, her gaze steady as she looks at her father. "I did call a lawyer for you. I found someone who's experienced in these matters. They'll be able to handle your case."

Lane's shoulders slump as he processes her words. "I know I made mistakes, Maya, but I didn't mean for things to get this bad. I need you to trust me, to help me through this."

Maya's eyes are filled with a mix of sadness and resolve. "I'm torn, Dad. I love you, but what's happened can't be ignored. I can't ignore the damage that's been done. My priority is to make sure the businesses are protected and that justice is served."

Lane looks at her with a mixture of hurt and anger. "So, that's it? You're just going to turn your back on me?"

Maya's voice softens slightly, though it remains firm. "It's not about turning my back. It's about doing what's right, even when it's incredibly hard. I have to focus on moving forward and dealing with the consequences of these actions."

She stands up to leave, her heart aching as she turns to walk away. "The lawyer will be here soon. They'll help you navigate this, and I hope you can find a way to make amends for what's happened."

— — —

Maya takes a seat in the living room, her gaze fixed on the city lights twinkling in the distance, but her thoughts are miles away. The image of her father, Lane, pleading for her help at the jail, clashes with the reality of his involvement in criminal activities and financial misconduct. She remembers the man who had been a guiding force in her life, the father who had always been there for her. Yet now, that image is shattered by the revelations of betrayal and wrongdoing.

She clutches a small framed photo of her family, taken years ago during happier times. The faces in the picture smile back at her, a stark reminder of the innocence that has been lost. Maya's eyes well up with tears as she tries to reconcile the loving father of her memories with the man who has caused so much harm.

The thought of her family's business, which now teeters on the edge of scandal and financial ruin, only adds to her distress. Maya had dedicated so much of her life to building and protecting the legacy of B4, Inc., only to have it threatened by the very people who should have supported and safeguarded it. The weight of responsibility and the burden of the situation feel almost too much to bear.

Later that evening, as Maya and Carina are winding down after a long day, Carina's emotions surface once again. They are sitting on the couch, Maya's hand resting gently on Carina's growing belly, the soft glow of the lamps casting a warm light around them.

Carina's face is troubled, her eyes distant as she wrestles with her thoughts. Finally, she speaks, her voice breaking the silence. "Maya, there's something I need to tell you. It's been weighing on me, and I can't keep it to myself any longer."

Maya turns to her, concern etched on her face. "What is it, Carina?"

Carina takes a deep breath, struggling to find the right words. "It's about Vincenzo. I've been trying to process everything, and I realize that I was never very close with him. I thought I was, but now I see that we were more distant than I admitted to myself. I didn't really know him well, and I'm feeling so conflicted about it."

Maya's heart aches at the vulnerability in Carina's voice. She takes Carina's hand in hers, squeezing it reassuringly. "I'm sorry, Carina. This must be incredibly difficult for you. It's hard to come to terms with someone's involvement in something so deeply troubling, especially when it's someone you thought you knew better."

Carina nods, her eyes shimmering with unshed tears. "I always wanted to believe that Vincenzo was just a strict, traditional father, but I never thought he could be involved in something like this. It's confusing and painful to realize that the image I had of him wasn't the full truth. I feel like I missed so many warning signs, and it's making me question everything."

Maya gently strokes Carina's hand, her own heart heavy with empathy. "You couldn't have known. None of us could have anticipated this. It's okay to feel hurt and betrayed. You're allowed to grieve the loss of the relationship you thought you had with him."

Carina's voice trembles as she continues. "I feel like I'm struggling to reconcile my feelings. Part of me is angry, but another part of me is just sad for what's been lost. It's a lot to process, especially with everything going on."

Maya nods, understanding the depth of Carina's pain. "It's a lot to handle, and it's normal to feel this way. Just know that you're not alone. We're in this together, and we'll face these emotions and challenges side by side."

Carina leans into Maya, finding comfort in her partner's unwavering support. "Thank you for being here for me. I don't know how I'd get through this without you."

Maya wraps her arms around Carina, holding her close. "You don't have to face this alone. We'll navigate these difficult times together, and we'll find a way to heal and move forward."

As they sit together, the weight of the day's events pressing heavily on their shoulders, Maya turns to Carina with a resolute expression. The soft glow of the lamp highlights the concern in her eyes.

"Carina," Maya begins, her voice steady but filled with emotion, "I keep thinking about everything that's happened—about how our families are intertwined in all this chaos. And it makes me realize that we want something so much better for our baby."

Carina looks at Maya, her eyes reflecting a mix of fatigue and determination. "I want that too, Maya. I want our baby to grow up in a world where they're surrounded by love and stability, not the shadows of the mistakes made by the people who should have protected them."

Maya nods, her gaze fixed on Carina's. "Exactly. I want our child to have a future where they don't have to carry the weight of these past betrayals. I want to give them a life filled with joy, security, and the values we believe in. I want them to grow up in an environment that's nurturing and free from the influence of the darkness we've had to face."

Carina reaches out, taking Maya's hand in hers. "I want that too. I want them to feel safe and loved, and I want to make sure that they have everything they need to thrive. I want to build a home where they can grow up knowing that their parents are committed to making the best possible life for them."

Maya's voice softens as she continues, "We've been through so much, and it's been so hard to come to terms with everything. But our baby gives us a chance to create something new and beautiful, something that's entirely our own. We have the power to shape their future, and I want to make sure we do everything we can to give them the best start in life."

Carina squeezes Maya's hand, her eyes filled with resolve. "We'll do whatever it takes to make sure our baby has a happy and healthy life. We'll build a future that's filled with love and positivity, and we'll make sure they know that they are cherished and valued."

Maya smiles softly, feeling a sense of reassurance from Carina's words. "We will. We're going to be the kind of parents who give our child everything they deserve and more. We'll create a life that's full of love and possibility, and we'll face whatever comes our way together."

Later that evening, as Maya and Carina sit together, trying to find solace in each other's company, Carina's phone rings. She glances at the screen and sees it's her mother, Lucia.

"Hi, Momma," Carina answers, her voice steady but tinged with the fatigue of the past days.

"Carina, I have some news," Lucia begins, her tone serious but calm. "Vincenzo has decided to cooperate with the police. He's finally chosen to do right by you and Maya and the businesses."

Carina's eyes widen slightly, her heart racing with a mix of relief and skepticism. "What do you mean? What's he saying?"

Lucia takes a deep breath before continuing. "He's agreed to provide full disclosure about his involvement and to cooperate in every way possible with the investigation. He wants to make amends for his actions and ensure that the businesses are protected and can move forward without further complications."

Carina looks at Maya, who's watching her intently, the news clearly hitting her as well. "What's his motivation? Why now?" Carina asks, her voice carrying the weight of her uncertainty.

Lucia's voice softens. "I think he realizes the gravity of his actions and how much damage they've caused. He's been reflecting on everything and understands the impact it's had on you, Maya, and the future of the businesses. He wants to make things right and is prepared to face the consequences of his actions."

Carina nods slowly, absorbing the information. "Thank you for letting me know, Mom. I guess this is a step in the right direction."

Lucia's tone is supportive. "I know this doesn't erase the pain or the trouble, but it's a move towards accountability. I hope it brings some peace and helps to mend the rift that's been created."

Carina looks over at Maya, who gives her a reassuring nod. "We'll need to see how this unfolds, but it's good to know that there might be some resolution. I appreciate you keeping me informed."

"Of course," Lucia replies. "If you need anything or want to talk more about this, I'm here for you. We'll get through this together."

As Carina hangs up, she turns to Maya, her expression a mix of relief and contemplation. "Vincenzo is going to cooperate with the police. He wants to make things right, and it looks like he's finally acknowledging the mess he's made."

Maya reaches out, taking Carina's hand in hers. "It's a step in the right direction. It won't undo the past, but it might help us start rebuilding. We'll take it one day at a time and focus on what we can control."

Carina nods, squeezing Maya's hand. "We will. And we'll keep moving forward, focusing on creating the future we want for ourselves and our baby."