Hiroto leaned back in his chair, absorbing Kaen’s words. The AI had given him a sense of direction, a path to follow amidst the chaos. He documented everything he knew about Paige and her foster home. He contacted friends and colleagues who could provide character references. Kaen’s voice echoed in his mind as he worked, a steady reminder of the wisdom and resilience required for this battle.

Hours passed, and Hiroto stared at the screen, a mix of exhaustion and determination in his eyes. Just as he was about to shut down his computer, Kaen’s voice broke the silence.

“Hiroto, I have accessed the public records and cross-referenced them with all databases. The authorities took Aiko into custody last week. The Westchester police took her into custody and placed her in a detention center. She is serving time at the Westchester detention center, awaiting a trial date.”

Hiroto’s heart sank. The thought of his niece, alone and frightened in a detention center, was infuriating. He dialed Ms. Carter’s number, and she picked up after the second ring.

“Ms. Carter, this is Mr. Abiko. I’ve been trying to reach you for weeks. Aiko is now in custody. What is going on?”

She spoke with a composed demeanor, though a hint of unease lingered beneath. “Mr. Hiroto, I apologize for not getting back to you sooner. The arrest has made her case problematic, and I’ve been actively trying to gather the necessary information. I assure you, I will get to the bottom of these allegations. Aiko’s well-being is my top priority.”

Hiroto felt a glimmer of hope. “Thank you, Ms. Carter. Please keep me updated on any developments. I need to know she’s safe.“

“I will, Mr. Abiko. I promise.”

Hiroto ended the call, his mind racing. He needed more information, and he needed it fast. He contacted Sumoto, a good friend and a skilled hacker. Hiroto trusted Sumoto despite his unpredictable nature.

He dialed Sumoto’s number, and after a few rings, a gruff voice answered. “Hiroto, it’s been a while. What’s going on?”

“Sumoto, I need your help. It’s about Aiko. Sumoto, I need your help,” Hirto said.

He explained the details of Aiko’s arrest and his conversation with Ms. Carter. The line fell silent for a moment. “Hiroto, you know it’s not that simple. She’s a minor, and getting that information will be a problem. And it’s illegal.“

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“I know, Sumoto. But she’s my niece, and in trouble. I can’t just sit here and do nothing. Please, I need your help.”

Sumoto sighed. “Alright, Hiroto. I’ll see what I can do. But you owe me for this, big time.“

“Thank you, Sumoto. I appreciate it more than you know.”

Hiroto ended the call and leaned back in his chair, the weight of the situation pressing down on him. He glanced at Kaen, who seemed to sense his turmoil.

“Do not lose hope, my friend. Sumoto will find the information we need. In the meantime, continue gathering evidence and building your case. We must be prepared for every eventuality.”

Hiroto nodded, feeling a renewed sense of purpose. He reached out to friends, colleagues, and even Takahashi relatives. Since Hiroto didn’t know his brother-in-law’s family well, he wasn’t surprised when they refused to help.

The next morning

Hiroto woke to a stiff neck as he pulled his head away from his desk.

I should have taken a break.

His phone buzzed. It was a message from Sumoto.

“Got some info. Call me.”

Hiroto dialed Sumoto’s number, his heart pounding. Sumoto answered almost immediately.

“I’ve got some details on Aiko’s case. It wasn’t easy, but a friend in the juvenile court system owed me a favor. Aiko’s altercation with the Henderson’s was more serious than we thought. There were allegations of murder, and given her previous record, the court placed her in detention until her trial.“

Hiroto’s mind raced. “Previous record? What are you talking about?”

Sumoto hesitated. “It seems Aiko had a few run-ins with the law while she was under Paige’s care. Minor stuff, but it added up. The court saw her as a repeat offender.”

Hiroto felt a surge of anger and frustration. “All because of Paige’s negligence. Aiko isn’t a criminal. She’s just a kid who’s been through hell.“

“I know, Hiroto. But the system sometimes sees it differently. We must build a strong case to show the court that Aiko deserves a second chance and that you’re the best person to provide her with a stable, loving home.”

Hiroto took a deep breath, trying to steady his nerves. “Thank you, Sumoto. I’ll take it from here.“

“Good luck, Hiroto. And remember, you owe me.”

Hiroto ended the call and turned to Kaen. “We need to act.“

Kaen’s voice was a soothing monotone. “Indeed, Hiroto. We must proceed strategically. Contact Ms. Carter with the new information and continue to gather support from your network. We will present a compelling case to the court.”

“I’m out of my depth here. I need to get some professional help,” Hiroto said.

“I’d advise against contacting outsiders you don’t know,” Kaen said.

Hiroto considered for a long moment.

“Fine, but I must visit Aiko to see what else she can tell me. I’m not leaving her fate to chance.”

“While you’re gone, I’ll keep probing; something doesn’t add up here,” his AI said.

Hiroto reached for his jacket and headed for the door.