Chapter 4 - THE REPORT Dr. Monroe was a mandated reporter.
She told me that directly.
“I need to contact child protective services because Cecily is describing physical handling by an adult caregiver and a current assault.”
“I understand.”
“Police may also become involved.”
“I understand.”
Then she looked at me.
“Did you strike Harlan?”
“Yes.”
“How?”
“One open-handed slap across the face immediately after he slapped Cecily.”
“Did he require medical treatment?”
“Not that I know.”
“Were you defending Cecily at that moment?”
“He had already released her.”
That answer hurt me.
Because it meant my slap had not been necessary to stop the exact contact that second.
It was rage.
Protective rage, perhaps.
Still rage.
Dr. Monroe documented that too.
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I wanted accuracy when it hurt Harlan.
I had to tolerate it when it involved me.
