A few days later a letter arrived from a local organization that supported families experiencing abuse.

They did not ask for photographs or a public statement.

They offered practical assistance, counseling referrals, and information about peer support groups.

Chloe read the letter twice and said she might attend a meeting someday.

“Not because I want to tell my story,” she clarified.

“Maybe just because I want to sit somewhere I don’t have to explain why I’m scared.”

I thought of the first night in the hospital, when I had wanted to make the Harringtons afraid in return.