As we arrived at a house that Sarah didn't recognize, I felt a knot form in my stomach. Her confusion was evident as she asked, "Ethan, where are we? You said you lived alone. Isn't this your girlfriend's place?"
"No, no, it's my sister's house. She's a doctor," I explained, hoping to ease her concerns with the truth.
"I've told you, Ethan. Doctors and hospitals are not for me," she protested, uncomfortable with the idea.
"It's just a quick visit, I promise. She has a clinic here at home," I reassured her, stepping out of the car. Sarah followed, albeit reluctantly. Rose welcomed us warmly, but her demeanor shifted to professionalism as she led us to her home clinic.
"What's happened to her, Ethan?" Rose asked, her voice full of concern.
"Yeah, she's having trouble walking," Ryan added, holding Eva, who reached out to me with her tiny arms. Holding my daughter close, I felt a moment of peace amidst the chaos. "How was your day with Aunt Rose and Uncle Ryan?" I whispered to Eva, finding solace in her innocent gaze, which mirrored Mia's. Mia, who had left us just 14 months prior, after Eva's birth, left a void in our lives.
Inside, Rose's clinic felt like a sanctuary. When she emerged, her expression spoke volumes. "Sarah is covered in marks, Ethan. Signs of a troubled home. It's possible she was abused," Rose shared, her voice heavy with concern.
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"That can't be. Nathan isn't like that. Did she say anything about her situation?" My words were rushed, propelled by my racing heart and swirling thoughts.
"Right now, she's resting. And Ethan, she's asking for you. She'll speak only with you," Rose informed me, her tone gentle yet firm.
The gravity of Sarah's situation and her silent suffering weighed heavily in the air. As I made my way to the guest bedroom, Sarah was in the washroom. When she came out, I asked her how she was feeling."I am good and who is this girl in your arms?" she asked."It's my daughter"I reply.
She gives Eva a quick smile and sits in the armchair.I sit in the armchair next to hers and I ask her the first question."What happened Sarah?Nathan is not like that.Who did this to you?".She looks down at her knees and starts fidgeting with her hair.I stand up,squat next to her and
looked into her eyes."If you want to take some time before opening up I am okay with that.I want you to know that I am here for you whenever you need me."I stood up and started walking out of the room hoping she to call me from behind but she never did until I was at the door.I stand there for a second and then leave.