Chapter 7 - THE BABY'S MEDICAL REPORT
Dr. Mercer examined Lily that afternoon.
Minor bruising on hip.
No head injury.
No fracture.
No concussion signs.
Claire cried from relief.
Then police arrived.
Richard had called.
Statements differed.
Claire said Vanessa shoved Lily.
Vanessa said she “set Lily down too quickly” during a chaotic argument.
Daniel claimed he did not see exact contact.
Security camera?
Outdoor camera covered the lawn.
But patio angle had a blind spot.
The crib throw was clear.
Lily falling was partially visible.
Enough to show sudden movement.
Not enough to prove force level precisely.
Claire hated that.
She wanted certainty.
Rachel said:
“You have evidence. Not omniscience.”
Then police asked about Claire slapping Vanessa.
Claire admitted it.
No games.
“I hit her after she pushed my daughter.”
Could be defense of child.
Could be retaliation depending on timing.
Investigators would decide.
May you like
Claire did not claim moral perfection.
That helped later.
