Over the next two weeks, Carla observed quietly. Sophie slept nearly 20 hours a day. When awake, she was confused, weak, barely able to play or speak.
One afternoon, Carla noticed something strange—the pills smelled sweet and herbal. Not like real medication.
While Veronica was out, Carla searched the master bathroom.
Hidden behind the mirror was…
a small bottle labeled in Chinese. Handwritten translation:
Poppy extract and calming herbs. Traditional remedy to quiet restless children.
Poppy.
Opium.
Carla’s hands shook as she photographed everything.
That night, she confronted Veronica indirectly—but the woman shut her down immediately.
“Do not question my decisions,” Veronica warned coldly. “Your job is obedience.”
Carla knew then: Veronica wasn’t treating Sophie.
She was drugging her—because she hated noise.
Carla began secretly reducing the dosage, replacing it with harmless vitamins. Slowly, Sophie woke up.
She noticed birds. Asked for food. Smiled.
When Veronica tried to increase the dose again—because she was hosting guests—Carla pretended to give it, then flushed it down the toilet.
That night, Veronica ordered an even stronger substance.
Carla panicked.
She called Sophie’s father.