As the minutes dragged on, Malcolm’s mind began to drift despite himself. He recalled the innocence of his own childhood, a time long before wealth and mistrust had hardened his heart. Yet he quickly snapped back to the present, reminding himself that he was conducting a test—a test to prove that even a young child could succumb to temptation.

Suddenly, a soft rustle drew Malcolm’s attention. He resisted the urge to open his eyes and waited, his senses heightened. The rustling grew louder, and he could feel the presence of the boy coming closer. Milo was on the move.

The child’s footsteps padded gently across the carpet, approaching the table where the envelope of money lay conspicuously. Malcolm’s pulse quickened. He envisioned the small hands reaching out, the curiosity overtaking the boy’s restraint. It was only a matter of time.

Yet, the anticipated sound of paper being disturbed never came. Instead, Malcolm felt a light touch on his shoulder. Startled, he almost flinched, but his years of practiced self-control held him still.

“Sir?” Milo’s voice was a mere whisper, filled with an unexpected blend of concern and respect. “Sir, are you okay?”

Malcolm remained motionless, and Milo’s hand withdrew. The child seemed to hesitate, wrestling with some inner conflict. Malcolm listened keenly, his curiosity piqued.

“Mother says we shouldn’t touch other people’s things,” Milo continued, as if reasoning with himself. “But… but if you’re not well, maybe I should get help?”

Malcolm’s heart softened, an uncomfortable yet familiar sensation. Despite his cynicism, the boy’s genuine worry was disarming. Milo lingered near the table, his presence a quiet assertion of integrity unfathomable for someone so young.

P

Then, to Malcolm’s astonishment, he heard Milo’s small voice again, this time directed to the space around him. “Please, if you’re listening, make Mr. Greyford better. I don’t want Mother to lose her job.”

The sincerity of Milo’s plea sent an unexpected warmth spreading through Malcolm’s chest. He realized that the test had not only been about proving human greed but had also inadvertently revealed the profound capacity for innocence and kindness.

After a few more silent moments, Malcolm decided it was time to end his ruse. He shifted slightly, allowing his eyes to flutter open, feigning the confusion of one waking from slumber.

Milo stepped back quickly, eyes wide with a mixture of fear and relief. “I’m sorry, sir! I didn’t mean to disturb you.”