Esther’s behavior at school troubled Veronica deeply. She frequently talked back to teachers with a sharpness far beyond her years, making rude, even crude remarks. Veronica was baffled—how could a child so young know how to speak with such biting sarcasm?
The school called Veronica often, expressing concern over Esther’s disruptive behavior. When confronted at home, Esther would deny everything with wide, innocent eyes. “They’re lying,” she’d say flatly. But something in her gaze left Veronica feeling unsettled and deeply uncertain.