Just as I finished treating Owen's injuries, Simon called. His voice was unnaturally calm on the other end of the line as he commanded, "Eunice, bring Owen to the hospital right now."
Owen pulled away from my hand reluctantly. "Mom, do I have to go?"
I sniffled, trying to sound worried. "Owen, you saw how he hit me too. If we don't go, I don't know what might happen."
Owen opened his mouth to protest but eventually took my hand again. In the car, he stared out the window, lost in thought.
After a while, he finally asked, "Mom, would you still love me like this if I did something wrong?"
Even though I did not quite understand what he meant, I nodded reassuringly. "Of course, as long as you haven't killed anyone or committed serious crimes, I'll always love you."
I hesitated for a moment and continued, "Wait, that's not right—I'll love you no matter what you do."
Owen nodded, seeming to relax a bit after hearing my words. As soon as we arrived at the hospital, Simon approa
