Chapter 12 - VICTORIA AND EMILY
Emily’s physical recovery took months.
The psychological recovery moved differently.
She feared elevators.
Red velvet.
Tan uniforms.
Men touching wheelchair handles.
She also feared Victoria’s command voice.
That truth hurt both of them.
During one therapy session, Emily said:
“When you entered the lobby, I knew you would save me. I also knew everyone would stop asking what I wanted.”
Victoria listened.
No defense.
“I’m sorry.”
“You always say that after you decide.”
Victoria looked down.
Military command rewarded decisiveness.
Motherhood sometimes required waiting.
They created rules.
No calls made on Emily’s behalf without permission unless immediate life danger existed.
No touching mobility equipment without asking.
No media statements.
No using rank in medical rooms.
Victoria practiced.
Badly at first.
May you like
Then better.
The relationship changed from rescue to trust.
