Chapter 14 - Celeste Finally Says the Truth
Celeste asked Margaret to meet in a small public park.
No lawyers.
No Richard.
No Ethan.
For a long time, neither woman spoke.
Then Celeste said, “I hated you.”
Margaret nodded.
“I know.”
“I thought you took my daughter.”
“I helped hide her.”
“You thought you were protecting her.”
“Yes.”
Celeste’s eyes hardened.
“Do you understand why that makes me furious?”
“Yes.”
Celeste looked down at her hands.
“I put the strap on you because I wanted you to feel powerless.”
Margaret’s face remained still.
“I did.”
“That was cruel.”
“Yes.”
“I’m sorry.”
Margaret waited.
Then she said, “I believe you.”
Celeste looked up.
“That doesn’t mean I forgive you.”
“I know.”
Margaret reached into her purse.
She handed Celeste an old photograph.
A newborn wrapped in a pale yellow blanket.
Charlotte.
Alive.
Three days old.
Celeste pressed it to her chest and sobbed.
Margaret looked away.
May you like
Some wounds could not be repaired.
They could only stop being hidden.
