Chapter 16 - EMMAMy daughter had seen more than I realized.
Not the injury.
The aftermath.
After swimming, Emma said:
“Lily told me not to tell.”
My heart dropped.
“What did she tell you?”
Then I remembered.
Do not interview.
I stopped myself.
“What do you want me to know?”
Emma twisted a towel.
“She said Grant gets mad when she tells grown-ups things.”
I felt sick.
“When did she say that?”
“In the pool.”
“What were you talking about?”
“The bandage.”
“Did she tell you how she got it?”
Emma shook her head.
“She said I shouldn’t ask because her mom said it was family business.”
Family business.
I stared at my seven-year-old.
“Emma, if someone is hurt or scared, it is always okay to tell a safe adult.”
“Even if they say secret?”
“Yes.”
“What if it gets someone in trouble?”
“Getting help and getting someone in trouble are not the same thing.”
She considered that.
Then:
“Did I get Aunt Sarah in trouble?”
“No.”
That answer required care.
“You noticed Lily was scared and told me. Adults are responsible for what happens next.”
Emma nodded.
May you like
Then asked for ice cream.
Children are merciful that way.
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