The doctor met his gaze with calm reassurance. “It’s serious, but treatable… because you brought her in now.” He looked at Lily’s arms, which bore bruises that were perfectly shaped like fingerprints. “Do you remember these?” he asked, his tone gentle but probing.
Dr. Hale nodded and began taking clinical photos before stepping into the hallway with Julian. “Mr. Cross, I’m legally obligated to report this to Child Protective Services. This injury needed medical attention days ago. Masking it with filthy bandages is gross negligence.”
Julian’s pulse quickened, but there was a flicker of relief as he realized a professional was validating the horror he felt. “Do whatever you need to do. Just… save her.”
While Lily was being taken for an ultrasound, Julian called 911 and requested an officer to file a report. Detective Reed and Officer Grant arrived shortly after. Julian recounted everything: the Tokyo trip, Eleanor’s frantic departure, the unsanitary bandages, the fever.
“Can you reach the mother?” Reed asked, glancing at Julian.
Julian dialed Eleanor’s number. She answered after a long pause. “What is it, Julian? I’m in the middle of something.”
“I’m at the hospital with Lily,” Julian said, placing the phone on speaker. “Why didn’t you take her to a doctor?”
“It wasn’t necessary. It was just a bump,” Eleanor’s voice was dismissive.
“How did it happen?”
“Lily told me you pushed her,” Julian said, eyeing the detective.
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