My stepdaughter cried whenever we were alone—but when I finally discovered why, it shattered everything I thought I knew

fire.

Maya’s face hardened. “Those marks are not accidental. This is coercive abuse. If I examine Harper and confirm what I already suspect, I’m required to report it.”

“I know,” I said. “But Clara is careful. We need more than bruises.”

Three days later, Clara left on another trip. The house grew quiet, but not peaceful. It felt like a countdown.

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