Theo paused, eyes darting to the door as if afraid someone might be following him. He took a deep breath, as though gathering all the courage his small body could muster, and finally spoke, his voice trembling.
“It was dark when they left us,” he began, his eyes welling with tears. “Our dad got real mad and started yelling. Mom tried to stop him, but he just shouted louder. Then he… he hit them. I tried to help, but he… he pushed me away.”
Dr. Hart listened intently, exchanging concerned glances with Olivia. There was a heaviness in the room, a tangible ache that came with the realization of the burden this child was carrying.
