CHAPTER FORTY-THREE
The following afternoon, Grace accompanied Aisha to meet the investigators.
James had already given his statement and handed over the documents. The detective confirmed that the material would be examined alongside the existing evidence.
For the first time in years, Grace felt she could breathe without constantly looking over her shoulder.
When they returned home, she sat beside Aisha on the sofa.
"I used to wonder whether anyone would ever believe me," Grace admitted. "There were days I questioned myself, even though I knew I had done nothing wrong."
Aisha held her mother's hand.
"You should never have had to carry that alone."
Grace smiled sadly. "I wanted to protect you. I thought keeping the past away from you was the best thing I could do."
"But it also left me with questions," Aisha replied gently. "I don't want us to hide things from each other anymore."
"You are right."
Grace reached for the old photograph of herself and Samuel.
"Your father would have wanted you to know the truth. He loved you deeply, Aisha. Never let the mistakes of other people make you doubt that."
Aisha's eyes filled with tears.
"I miss him."
"So do I."
They sat together for a while, remembering the man who had given their family so much love.
Later that evening, Richard called Grace.
"The investigators have received James's statement," he said. "I have also submitted my own formal account."
Grace remained quiet.
"I know I cannot undo the years you lost because of me," Richard continued. "But I will keep cooperating until the truth is clear."
"Thank you for finally doing what you should have done years ago," Grace replied.
She ended the call without promising forgiveness.
For once, she did not feel guilty about protecting her peace.
She had spent years being treated as though she needed to prove her worth.
Now, she was ready to stand tall, regardless of whether the world apologized.