“I know, sweetheart,” Sophia murmured, brushing her hair back. “Just a little longer.”
But the hunger wasn’t the worst part. It was the words.
“You’re burdens,” Vanessa sneered. “Your father would be happier without you.”
On the second afternoon, Sophia couldn’t take it anymore. While Vanessa slept, she called Daniel.
“Mr. Harrison… please come home. Now.”
“What’s happened?”
“I can’t explain. Just come. And don’t tell her.”
Daniel felt something twist in his gut. Sophia never panicked. He booked the first flight home.
He arrived just before dusk and entered quietly through the garden doors.
From the living room, he heard shouting.
“You’re useless!” Vanessa’s voice was venom. “Clean it up!”
Daniel stepped closer and froze.
Madison and Harper were pressed against the sofa, shaking, tears streaming down their faces. Vanessa towered over them.
“Sorry?” she mocked when Harper whimpered an apology. “Your mother should be sorry for bringing you into this world. You’re a burden. You should’ve been shipped off years ago.”
She raised her hand.
Before Daniel could move, Sophia stepped between them.
The slap landed across Sophia’s cheek.
She didn’t move.