My 5-Year-Old Niece Whispered, “The Chair Hurts”—Then a Doctor Found the Truth Her Parents Had Been Hiding

Marcus did not look up.

“She’s discovered that saying things hurt gets attention.”

“She’s crying.”

“She’s five.”

As if that explained everything.

I watched Sophia.

Every time Marcus raised his voice, even in ordinary conversation, her shoulders jumped.

Then, while Elisa carried dishes into the kitchen, I heard something from the hallway.