The next morning, I made a decision that would change everything. Emma’s safety and well-being were my top priority, and I knew I couldn’t let her go back to her grandparents’ house. I called my sister, Sarah, who lived nearby and had always been there for us, especially after David’s death. I explained everything, my voice shaky with anger and fear. Sarah listened in silence, her outrage palpable through the phone.
“You and Emma can stay with us,” she said immediately. “As long as you need.”
I exhaled, relief momentarily overwhelming the turmoil inside me. Having someone on my side made the ordeal slightly more bearable.
