No fractures I can detect, but she needs imaging.” He paused. “The pattern isn’t accidental. Whoever did this used open-hand strikes, over and over. There are also marks near the scalp — severe hair-pulling.”

Chloe heard him from the room and panicked. “No hospital, please.”

Dr. Patel softened. “Documentation matters, Chloe, but your safety matters more. We’ll arrange a private clinic.”

Robert nodded. “Do it now.”

At 5:46 a.m., Evelyn Ward arrived in a tailored cream suit, a leather folder under her arm, and looked at Chloe the way a judge looks at evidence that will ruin someone.

“My dear, I’m going to ask you questions. Some will hurt, and you can stop anytime. But every answer is a brick in the wall we build between you and them.”