At first, Esther refused to go. Her lips tightened, and her eyes narrowed in suspicion. But when Veronica insisted that it was just a quick, routine visit, Esther reluctantly relented. “It’s no big deal,” Veronica said lightly, though her heart thudded heavily in her chest.
At the doctor’s office, Veronica maintained the charade, chatting casually as the nurse took Esther’s height and weight. Esther sat quietly, legs swinging off the edge of the exam table, the picture of innocence—until Veronica saw her chance to speak privately with the doctor.