Chapter 36 - The GraveMonths later, David visited Emily's grave.
For years, there had been no grave.
Only a name in an old hospital file.
But after the investigation, the truth was confirmed.
Emily had died as a child.
She had been failed by the people who should have protected her.
David stood before the small memorial stone.
Clara stood beside him.
Leah held Maya.
David placed a white flower on the grave.
“I don't remember you.”
His voice cracked.
“But I wish I did.”
Clara placed her hand on his shoulder.
“You remembered enough.”
David looked at her.
“Do you think she'd be proud?”
Clara smiled.
“I think she would.”
The wind moved through the trees.
For the first time, the family stood together without fear.
David looked at Maya.
His daughter was laughing.
He smiled.
Emily's story had ended in tragedy.
May you like
But hers didn't have to.
That was the promise he made silently.
