Jenna Roland clutched the thick red envelope, its weight heavy against her fingertips.

It was the first time since their parents' death that someone had given them a gift like this.

Tony Lombardi and Wendy Lombardi's gesture made Jenna's eyes grow slightly moist.

"Tony, we really can't accept this." Jenna pushed the envelope back. "You've already helped us so much."

She thought of the $20,000 transfer and last night's bottle of Romanée-Conti.

Tony frowned. "It's tradition for first-time guests."

Wendy laughed and tucked the envelope into Jenna's hand. "Consider it a welcome gift. No arguments."

Milo Roland discreetly squeezed the envelope, its thickness making his pulse quicken.

"Thank you, Tony. Thank you, Wendy." The boy lowered his head shyly.

Tony suddenly pulled a gold-embossed business card from the coffee table drawer.

"Take this." He handed it to Milo. "If anyone gives you trouble, call this number."

Milo accepted the card, his fingers trembling slightly.

He understood the power this card represented.

"Jenna, you should rest." Tony turned to her. "You have work tonight."

Jenna hesitated, glancing at Wendy. "Wendy... you don't mind that I work at the club?"

Wendy burst out laughing. "I was wilder than you at your age."

She linked arms with Jenna affectionately. "There's no shame in earning an honest living."

Jenna finally relaxed into a smile.

Watching her brother carefully tuck away the business card, she felt a long-lost sense of security.

For the first time in years, they weren't alone in this world anymore.