Chapter 14 - The Day My Sister Knocked Again
Six months later, Audrey came back.
This time, she was invited.
Not inside immediately.
We met at a coffee shop.
Sophia came.
Audrey looked terrified.
Good.
Not because I wanted her afraid.
Because it meant she understood the importance of the moment.
She apologized directly to Sophia.
No excuses.
No “but.”
No blaming Eleanor.
“I helped trap you in your own home,” she said. “I mocked you when you were scared. I participated in taking your phone. I helped Mom pressure you into signing papers. I knew it was wrong.”
Sophia’s eyes filled.
Audrey continued.
“You never have to forgive me.”
Sophia wiped one tear.
“I don’t forgive you yet.”
Audrey nodded.
“I understand.”
“But I believe you’re trying.”
That was enough.
Three months later, Audrey saw Leo for the first time since the hospital.
Supervised.
Short.
She didn’t pick him up until Sophia offered.
When Leo reached toward her hair, Audrey laughed and cried simultaneously.
I watched from across the room.
Not healed.
May you like
Healing.
There was a difference.
