In the women’s correctional facility, Margaret was moved to a cell block. The warden, Stella Roman, brought her a few personal items and an old wedding photo—Margaret and Andrew on their wedding day. Margaret held the frame, staring at a happier past in silence.
Katherine moved forward with guardianship paperwork for Annie. She signed documents with trembling hands as social services confirmed a permanent custodial arrangement. “Congratulations,” said caseworker Philip Novak. “The judge granted you full custody. We’ll arrange therapy and a new school placement in a safer neighborhood.” Katherine could barely speak; she squeezed Annie’s hand.
Two weeks later Annie started at Sunny Meadows Preschool about forty miles away. No one there knew her story. She was just a new little girl with a teddy. Her teacher, Mary Evans, knelt to greet her. “What’s your name, sweetheart?” “Annie,” she said. “This is my friend,” she added, cuddling the bear. For the first time in many months a small smile appeared.
