Chapter 26

As my senses gradually came back, I was astounded by what I saw. Claire was there, and she was taking care of me very gently. Her tender presence was a soul-stirring salve for my bruised body.

“Claire! It is really you, Claire! I miss you, Claire,” I cried as I held onto her hand tightly.

She just nodded and touched me gently, and her worried face assured me that I was safe – at least for the moment. I was weak both physically and mentally; the effects of the abuse I had experienced showed in every bump and pain, but it wasn’t the right time to allow myself to succumb to weakness.

Not when my unborn child’s life was on the line. The tiny, developing life inside of me was the only source of light in the dark situation, and I would to any lengths to keep it safe.

“What did he do to you?” Claire whispered. As she gently probed, Claire's eyes were filled with compassion, and her voice was like a balm to my bruised spirit. "Chloe, please, can you tell me what he