Chapter 3: The Hospital and the Report
Anna didn’t take Lily straight home.
She drove straight to the hospital.
The doctors examined Lily carefully. They documented the bruise on her cheek, the old marks on her arms, and the way she flinched whenever someone raised their voice. A child protective services worker and a police officer were called.
Lily was quiet at first, but when Anna held her hand and told her she was safe, she finally spoke.
She told them everything.
About the slaps.
About being made to do all the housework.
About how her father never stopped it.
Anna sat beside her the entire time, holding her hand and crying silently.
When the officer asked if Lily wanted to press charges, Lily looked at her mother.
Anna nodded.
“It’s your choice, baby. But I will support whatever you decide.”
May you like
Lily took a deep breath.
“I don’t want to go back there,” she whispered. “I want to stay with my mom.”
