Chapter 14: The Healing
Elena gave birth to a healthy baby girl three weeks later.
She named her Grace.
Lily was fascinated by the new baby. She would sit quietly beside the bassinet and gently touch Grace’s tiny fingers, a soft smile on her face.
Elena watched them together and felt something she hadn’t felt in a very long time.
Peace.
David was granted very limited, supervised visitation with both Lily and baby Grace. He showed up on time for the first few visits, looking tired and defeated. He tried to talk to the children, but it was clear he didn’t know how to connect with them.
Lily was polite but distant.
Grace was too young to understand.
Elena didn’t push. She simply made sure the visits happened in a safe, neutral environment with a social worker present.
One evening, after David left, Lily came and sat beside Elena on the couch.
“I don’t think I want to live with Daddy anymore,” she said quietly.
Elena looked at her.
“Why not, sweetheart?”
Lily hugged her rabbit.
“He doesn’t feel like my daddy. Not really. He feels like a stranger. And Jessica was mean. I like it here with you and Grace. It feels safe.”
Elena’s eyes filled with tears.
She pulled Lily into a gentle hug.
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“You can stay here as long as you want,” she whispered. “You’re safe with us.”
Lily leaned into the hug and didn’t let go for a long time.
