Chapter 3: The Weight of Healing
The next morning marked the beginning of their new reality. While the legal victory was absolute, the practical challenges of their life remained. Sarah’s physical therapy was grueling. Three times a week, a therapist came to the house, pushing Sarah to her absolute limits to regain core strength and adapt to her paralysis.
Lily watched from the doorway during these sessions, her wide hazel eyes taking in her mother’s strained face and sweaty brow.
""Does it hurt, Mommy?"" Lily asked one afternoon, stepping into the room and offering Sarah a glass of water. It was the first time she had used the word Mommy without hesitation.
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Sarah took the glass with trembling hands, offering a tired but radiant smile. ""Sometimes growing stronger hurts a little bit, Lily. But it’s a good hurt. It means I’m fighting.""
Lily nodded solemnly. She placed her gray bunny on Sarah’s lap. ""Mr. Hops says you are the strongest mommy in the whole world.""
