Chapter 4 - The Diary of Stolen Years
In the corner of the small room, tucked carefully beneath Annie’s small pillow, Victor discovered a cloth-bound notebook with frayed edges. It was Catherine’s journal.
Sitting on the damp floor, Victor turned the brittle pages under the yellow glow of his smartphone flashlight.
*October 14, Year One:*
> “Maris came to the diner today in her limousine. She sent a man inside to tell me that if Annie was seen within five miles of Victor’s corporate offices, she would call Child Protective Services and claim I am an unfit mother who relies on panhandling. She reminded me that Victor is closing the German deal and that my presence would destroy his reputation. I skipped dinner tonight so Annie could have milk. My chest hurts when I breathe, but Annie smiled when she drew a picture of our old garden. I must stay strong for her.”
*March 22, Year Two:*
> “Annie asked why Daddy doesn’t call. What could I say? I told her Daddy is building a kingdom for us in the sky, that he works all night and day so the world can be better. I can never let her think her father abandoned her. Victor, my love, wherever you are, I hope your life is bright. I hope you never feel the cold that I feel tonight. If you ever find this, know that I never took a penny, and I never stopped loving you.”
*November 9, Year Three:*
> “The cough won’t stop. The diner manager threatened to fire me if I cough in front of the customers again. I have three dollars left. Rent is due on Tuesday. The landlord said he will lock us out in the snow if I don't pay. I went to the church for bread, but the line was too long, and I had to pick up Annie from after-school care. My head is spinning. I prayed to God today: please let Annie survive, even if I cannot.”
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Tears streamed down Victor’s face, splashing onto the faded ink. The depth of Catherine’s devotion—and the sheer depravity of his mother’s cruelty—left him feeling entirely broken. He pressed the journal against his chest, swearing on his life that the world would know Catherine’s courage.
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