Chapter Five: The Backup
The medical team arrived and began treating Lily's injuries.
She was dehydrated, in shock, and had several cracked ribs. But she was alive.
She was going to survive.
That was what mattered.
I sat beside her as the paramedics worked.
"Dad..." she whispered.
"I'm here."
"I'm sorry I didn't tell you sooner."
"Don't apologize."
"He said if I told anyone, he'd hurt you too."
"That's what abusers do," I said gently. "They isolate their victims. Make them feel like there's no way out. But you called. You reached out. That took courage."
"I didn't know what else to do."
"Next time, call me immediately. I don't care what time it is. I'll come."
The paramedic looked at me. "She needs to go to the hospital. These injuries are serious."
"I'm coming with her."
"No, sir. The vehicle will be secure. We'll take her to County Memorial. You can meet us there."
I hesitated.
But Lily nodded. "Go do what you have to do. I'll be fine."
I kissed her forehead.
May you like
"I love you."
"I love you too, Dad."
