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The Seeds of Doubt

Author: Rejoice Ezeh
last update Last Updated: 2025-10-15 11:13:10

Jake's POV

Something was wrong with Emma.

I noticed it during the handoff on Wednesday. I was picking up Alex for dinner, and Emma came to the door looking like she hadn't slept in days.

Dark circles under her eyes. Her hands were shaking when she handed me Alex's backpack. And she kept looking over her shoulder like she expected someone to jump out at her.

"You okay?" I asked.

"Fine. Just tired."

"Emma—"

"I'm fine, Jake. Really." She forced a smile. "Alex, be good for your dad. I'll see you tomorrow."

Alex hugged her and we left. But I couldn't shake the feeling that something was very wrong.

On Friday, I brought Alex back after school. Emma opened the door, and that's when I saw them.

Bruises on her arm. Dark purple fingerprints. Like someone had grabbed her. Hard.

"Emma, what happened to your arm?"

She looked down like she'd forgotten they were there. Then quickly pulled her sleeve down.

"Nothing. I bumped into the door. Clumsy." She took Alex's hand. "Thanks for bringing him back.
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