Chapter 8: Steady Ground
We stayed in the temporary place longer than I first expected.
Hena still startled at closed doors. Lily still positioned herself between her sister and any unfamiliar adult. I kept the routines simple: meals at regular times, lights left on in the hallway at night, no raised voices, no sudden movements toward either of them. A child therapist recommended by the clinic began sessions focused on safety and predictable structure. I attended the parent portions and followed the guidance without improvisation.
The formal investigation continued in parallel. The storage room remained documented and sealed for the relevant authorities. Vanessa’s request for immediate unsupervised time was denied under the temporary orders. Supervised options were discussed and left pending further evaluation. I agreed only to what the court and the children’s clinicians required. Nothing more.
