41

Stella,

After we’re done eating with our parents, we all head into the living room to visit a little longer before we all head home for the night.

“Stella, mom and dad have to talk to you about something. Could we go into the study right quick?”

“Um- sure?”

“Once in the study, dad closes the door, so the others can’t hear our conversation. Stella Professor Hamilton’s daughter reached out to us and would like to talk to you. She wants to apologize to you in person for what you endured. Are you up to talking to her, dad asks me?

“NO!” I yell. I refuse to have any involvement with anyone associated with that monster. We are both able to sleep soundly through the night with no nightmares. I don’t care about her apology. Why didn’t they report him before he hurt someone else? I didn’t realize I was crying until Dad hugged me.

“It’s okay baby girl, you do not have to do anything you are not comfortable doing.”

“Mom and I will let her know it is not a good idea