Chapter 7 - THE VISIT

The CPS investigator introduced herself as Dana Brooks.

She was professional, tired-looking, and direct.

"We received a report this morning concerning possible emotional instability in the home and unsafe handling of an infant."

My stomach turned.

James stepped aside.

"Come in."

Instead, I remembered James's advice.

Save everything.

Stay calm.

Tell the truth.

Dana asked to see Emma.

She observed her, asked about feeding and sleep, checked the home, and requested a copy of the urgent-care discharge paperwork.

Then she asked what happened on Christmas.

I told her.

James showed her Megan's video.

Dana watched it once without expression.

Then again.

"May I have a copy?"

"Yes," James said.

We also showed her Lauren's social-media posts, Dad's written statement, and the older video from my parents' guest room.

Dana took notes for nearly an hour.

Finally, she closed her folder.

"I can't discuss the reporter."

"I know who it was," I said.

"Maybe. But here's what I can tell you. Based on what I've observed today, I do not have immediate concerns about Emma's safety in this home."

My eyes filled before I could stop them.

Dana softened slightly.

"I do have concerns about the adult shown striking her."

After she left, I sat on the stairs and cried from pure exhaustion.

James sat beside me.

"She tried to turn us into the problem."

"And failed."

"This time."

My phone rang.

Dad.

I almost ignored it.

Then I answered.

"What?"

"Your mother is packing."

"Packing for what?"

"She says she's coming to your house."

I stood.

"No."

"Claire, she is hysterical."

"Then stop her."

"I don't think I can."

"Dad, for once in your life, try."

The line went quiet.

He whispered, "There's something else. Lauren came here this morning. They had a fight."

"About what?"

"Money."

I frowned.

"What money?"

Dad exhaled.

"Your mother has been paying Lauren's rent for almost a year."

"Why does that matter?"

"Because Lauren told her if she didn't keep defending her, she'd tell you what your mother did with Emma's college account."

My heart stopped.

"Emma doesn't have a college account with Mom."

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Dad's next words came out barely above a whisper.

"Yes, she does."