Simone Beck, who used play, drawing, and sign-supported conversation.

I stayed outside unless invited.

When Dr.

Beck emerged, she did not give us a dramatic revelation.

She explained that Pearl had described frightening experiences and that further assessment and appropriate safeguarding steps were necessary.

She documented the child’s statements, consulted the relevant child-protection professionals, and asked Desmond to maintain a safe distance between Pearl and anyone named in the concerns.

Desmond nodded without argument.