Chapter 16 - GRACE GROWS UP
Grace grew into a curious child who asked direct questions.
At seven:
“Why don’t I know Dad?”
Emily answered:
“Because he made choices that were unsafe.”
At ten:
“Did Grandpa really hit me before I was born?”
“He hit my body while you were inside it.”
“Did I feel it?”
“I don’t know.”
At thirteen:
“Did you hit him back?”
“Yes.”
Grace went quiet.
“Are you glad?”
Emily answered honestly.
“I’m glad we survived. I wish survival had not required it.”
That distinction stayed with Grace.
She did not grow up believing violence made her mother strong.
She grew up understanding strength included action, restraint, evidence, and recovery.
At sixteen, Grace requested Corey’s letters.
Emily gave them to her.
Grace read alone.
Then said:
“I don’t want to meet him yet.”
Emily nodded.
No persuasion.
No relief.
May you like
No disappointment turned into pressure.
The choice remained hers.
