Chapter 19 - The Door I Wouldn't Open

I spoke through the intercom.

"You need to leave."

My mother lifted the gift as if it could change the court order.

"We're only here to see Paige."

"Visits have to be approved."

Kate stepped into the camera's view.

She looked tired and frightened.

"I just want to know she's okay."

"Then call Monica."

"Ally, please."

I stared at the image of my sister.

A part of me wanted to open the door, put Paige in her arms, and pretend that one hug could fix everything.

Another part remembered the investigator's accusation in the hospital hallway.

"I will follow the plan," I told her.

"For Paige."

My mother shook her head.

"You're punishing your sister."

"No," I said.

"I'm refusing to make Paige responsible for our feelings."

I ended the connection and informed Monica of the unplanned visit.

They left without another knock.

Over the following weeks, Paige attended appointments and slowly became more comfortable with movement again.

I learned her nap schedule, her favorite songs, and the way she curled one hand around my finger when she was sleepy.

I also learned that loving a child did not mean knowing everything.

I asked questions, followed clinical advice, and let the professionals guide her recovery.

The case against Ryan continued to develop.

The prosecutor filed charges arising from the alleged injury and concealment, with the allegations to be tested in court.

Kate faced consequences for her admitted false statement and failure to seek care, while participating in court-ordered services.

I had expected those developments to feel like victory.

Mostly they felt sad.

Then my mother wrote a letter.

She apologized for urging me to keep quiet and admitted she'd been more afraid of family embarrassment than of confronting the truth.

I couldn't tell whether she understood the full damage.

But for once she didn't demand anything in return.

A month after Paige came home with me, Rebecca called with news.

Kate wanted to correct one final detail in her official account.

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