Chapter 7 - First Steps and Forgotten Memories
As winter set in, bringing soft blankets of snow over Sunflower Cottage, life established a sweet and comforting rhythm. Natalie began working remotely as a freelance graphic designer—a passion she had abandoned years ago under Richard’s controlling demands.
Sophie started at a new kindergarten nearby, where she quickly made best friends. Her teacher reported that Sophie was a vibrant, kind leader in class who loved telling stories about her baby brother and her "hero friend" Rachel.
One morning in early January, a light snow was falling outside the kitchen window. Natalie was seated at the table sketching designs for a children's book illustration, while Leo lay on a colorful activity mat on the warm rug.
At three months old, Leo was thriving, his cheeks chubby and rosy. He was attempting to roll over, grunting with adorable determination.
Sophie sat on the floor beside him, encouraging him with squeals of delight. “Come on, Leo! You can do it! Roll to Barnaby!”
With a sudden, triumphant kick of his tiny feet, Leo flipped completely onto his stomach and let out a triumphant squeal, holding his head up proud and high.
“Mommy! Look! Leo rolled over!” Sophie cheered, clapping her hands.
Natalie dropped her pencil and knelt on the rug, showering both of her children with kisses. “Oh, my smart little boy! Look at you!”
At that moment, the front doorbell rang. Sophie ran to the window and peeked through the frosted glass.
“It’s Rachel and Uncle Vance!” she yelled excitedly, unlatching the door.
Rachel and Vance walked in, stomping the snow off their boots and carrying boxes of hot chocolate and fresh pastries. But Detective Vance’s face carried an important piece of news.
“Natalie,” Vance said after taking off his heavy coat. “The preliminary court hearings are finished. Richard’s legal team tried to file for full mental incapacity, but Prosecutor Jenkins presented the journal and the laboratory purchase records. The judge rejected all plea bargains.”
Natalie stood tall, her posture firm. “When is the trial?”
“Next month,” Vance said gently. “The prosecution wants you to give a victim impact statement. You don't have to if it's too painful, Natalie. The physical evidence alone is enough.”
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Natalie looked at Sophie, who was showing Rachel how Leo could hold his rattle, and then looked down at her healthy, thriving son.
“No, Marcus,” Natalie said, her eyes flashing with quiet strength. “I want to speak. I want him to look me in the eye and see that he didn't break us. I want my children to know that their mother stood up for them without fear.”
