My chest tightened like a blade had sliced straight through it.
The little princess I had once held so dearly had been forced to live like this.
I rushed over. As I neared the door, voices drifted from inside.
“Tatiana, I suggest you keep that mouth of yours shut. Don’t speak out of line.”
“Your dad’s not coming back. Stop wasting your time.”
“Besides, even if your dad shows up, it won’t change a thing. He’s just a useless nobody.”
It was Carlos’s voice. Hearing it left me stunned.
I had never imagined he’d grow so bold, so arrogant.
Back when Alice brought him into our home, he had seemed quiet and timid. I even told my daughter to be kind to him, not to tease or push him around. Turns out, it was all a performance. His true colors were darker than I ever expected.
I regretted ever saying yes to Alice’s request; that decision had brought a wolf into our home. She had told me he was obedient and sensible, that he’d stay out of trouble.
“I won’t let you insult my dad! He’s the best dad in the world!” My daughter’s voice rang out, firm and full of fire.
Carlos struck her.
“You keep defending him, then where is he, huh?”
“Quit faking. You really think I believe you passed out?”
I couldn’t listen anymore. I kicked the door open.
Carlos froze when he saw me, but quickly pulled on that fake, well-behaved mask.
“Uncle, you’re back! Auntie’s going to be so happy.”
I shot him a cold look and walked straight to my daughter, who had collapsed on the floor.
“Uncle, I didn’t do anything. Tatiana’s probably just tired from school stress.”
I didn’t say a word. I scooped her into my arms and walked out.
I’d settle the score later; for now, her well-being came first.
As I carried her, my eyes stung.
She felt terrifyingly light.
Three years ago, before I left, I had carried her in my arms, she’d been heavier then than she was now.
So what kind of life had she endured during these three years?
I rushed her to the best hospital and found the most experienced doctor.
After the examination, the doctor said, “Her condition isn’t critical. She’s just severely malnourished and clearly hasn’t been eating properly.”
My fists clenched in silent rage.
So after I left, Alice hadn’t even made sure she had food?
How could a mother be so heartless?
“Oh, by the way, would you like to file a police report?”
I immediately asked what he meant.
He told me my daughter had multiple old and new injuries, signs of possible abuse.