Then one morning, Elise found her name on the day’s patient list—Olivia Harper, postpartum checkup. A quiet relief washed over her, followed instantly by unease. She hoped that everything had turned out all right and wondered what she would do otherwise.
When Olivia walked in, alone and carrying her baby, Elise exhaled softly. The girl looked healthier, calmer, her hair tied neatly, and her eyes clearer. But beneath the surface calm, something cautious still flickered, like a flame shielded by cupped hands.