Seeing it up close left no room for denial. A shiver went through her. In Ayla’s current state, talking to her was out of the question. There was no hope of getting any testimony.

“Director.” Hadley faced him and spoke softly.

“Would you mind helping me with something?”

“Of course. What do you need?”

Hadley said, “Please look after Ayla. As for her treatment—”

“You have nothing to worry about.” The administrative director cut her off with a reassuring smile.

“When Ayla arrived, Mr. Flynn gave us strict instructions to provide the very best care. The doctor overseeing her case is not only our best but also a leading expert in the field.”

He paused, his tone turning somber.

“You may not realize it, but Ayla was in far worse condition when she first got here. She tried to harm herself several times. She’s come a long way since then.”

That explanation helped Hadley see that Ernest had already handled everything with care. Everything he had said before turned out to be true. He never let this matter slip by, and he wasn’t about to abandon it unfinished.

She offered a polite thank you.

“I appreciate all your help.”

The director gave a slight nod.

“It’s part of our responsibility.”

After stepping out of Srixby No. 2 Psychiatric Hospital, worry clung to Hadley. All she could do at this point was hope for Ayla’s recovery. She prayed the treatment would help Ayla return to herself so they could discuss what came next.

Right now, Chelsey’s involvement seemed especially important.

Since White Lake Prison was quite a distance away, Hadley headed back to Jewel Avenue first. She shared lunch with Joy and made sure the child fell asleep for her nap. Only then did she set out again, driving toward White Lake Prison.

Someone was waiting to greet her at the entrance.

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“Miss Pearson, please have a seat for a moment.”

“Thank you.”

Hadley took a seat in the visitors’ meeting room, which was split by a sturdy iron railing. Her side had a simple wooden table, and across from her, the other chair remained empty for now.

Faint footsteps echoed from behind the far door. Instinctively, she sat up straighter and watched as it swung open.

A guard stepped in first, clearing the way. Chelsey followed, hair cropped short and dressed in the standard prison uniform.

For a brief second, Chelsey’s face lit up with hope. The moment she realized who was visiting, her eyes widened in disbelief.

“Hadley?”

“That’s right; it’s me.” Hadley gave a gentle nod.

Hesitation crossed Chelsey’s face as she walked over and sat down, her confusion clear.

“So much time has passed,” Chelsey whispered, her eyes growing misty.

“I never imagined you’d come.”

Hadley offered a soft smile.

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