Chapter 8
Caleb and Emma gave forensic interviews with a child specialist.
They did not have to testify immediately.
Thank God.
But their words became part of the case.
Caleb said Vanessa had told them before that “people like Maria steal small things first.”
Emma said Vanessa made her count jewelry after I cleaned rooms.
My chest hurt when I heard that.
Not because of the accusation.
Because the children had been taught suspicion before they understood cruelty.
Caleb said he started watching the cameras because he thought Vanessa was lying about me eating food from the pantry.
I had permission to eat meals.
It was in my contract.
But Vanessa had told the children I “took extra.”
Emma had hidden cookies in her drawer for me.
I cried when Alicia told me.
A little girl thought she had to feed the woman who made her lunch every day.
Vanessa had been building the theft story for months.
Not suddenly.
May you like
Not one mistake.
A campaign.
