The document explained everything. They were holding groups of kids long-term and waiting as long as possible to close files. The report suggested giving bonuses to staff for keeping beds full. The orphanage was the “perfect test model.” Nina felt sick to her stomach. This wasn’t an accident; it was a deliberate trap. Children were being used like pieces on a scoreboard to keep the money flowing.
“This goes national if the vote passes,” Nina said. Jessa nodded. “They call it a model for efficiency. Every home will learn to freeze files the same way.” The screen flickered. They hit download, hearts pounding. Twelve days left. The policy would turn one home’s trick into a country-wide practice.