#mrcole

[the-smallest-star]

“Well your story matches with previous police reports, school reports and medical... do you feel you are able to care for her with confidence?”

“Yes, and I also have my mother and my ex-mother-in-law who dote on Hannah.”

“Is that your father’s wife?”

“No... I’ve reconnected with my real mum.”

“I see. Your home is a bit on the small side but she does have all the essentials, as well as entertainment... what have you done in response to your own health?”

“I’ve been seeing a therapist, and taking what the doctor gives me. Debbie comes over every day to check on us too.”

“Your late wife’s mother?”

“Yes.”

“No corporal punishment of any sort?”

“No, I’d never.”

“Sorry, we needed to ask. Does she see any sort of therapy? She has gone through a lot for a child....”

“We’ve signed her up, we’re just waiting to hear back from the doctor.”

“... you’re really trying are’t you?”

“I-... just want her to be happy and healthy, and to know she’s loved.”

“Is she in her room?”

“Yes.”

“I’m going to ask her a few questions on her own, I shouldn’t be long.”

[the-smallest-star]

“Thanks Mr Smalley, I don’t see any reason why Hannah should be removed from your care and I’ll send you a copy of the report.”

“Thank you Mr Cole.”

“I’ll be back in a few weeks for a follow up visit, but you take care.”

“We will, you have my number if you have any more questions.”

[the-smallest-star]

“... you feeling a bit shy?”

“...”

“Don’t like strangers much?”

“... are you going to take me away?”

“Not if I don’t have to. I just want to ask you some questions, make sure you’re alright. You happy with your dad?”

“Yes.”

“You get along? Does he do anything you don’t like?”

“... he makes me eat my veggies.”

“Yeah? Well they are good for you.”

“.... I know who sent you.”

“Hm?”

“Suzy Snidley’s Daddy called you didn’t he.”

“... I can’t disclose that.”

“You don’t have to, she said her Daddy was gonna call and say Daddy’s a bad dad, then I’d get taken away and put someplace where no one will like me.”

“Oh... does she say mean things a lot?”

“Uh huh....”

“Does your dad know?”

“Yeah, he’s talking to the Principle about it. He’s not happy that she makes me sad.”

“... shall I tell you a secret?”

“Okay?”

“I used to be picked on too.”

“... really?”

“Yeah, but I had some really good parents who helped me through it.”

“Like my Daddy?”

“Mhm, I just need to ask you a few more questions okay?”

“... okay.”

[the-smallest-star]

KNOCK KNOCK KNOCK

“... um... can I help you?”

“Are you James Smalley?”

“...Yes?”

“I’m Mr Cole, social services. We got a call expressing concern for your daughter. Can I come in?”

“Oh... yeah sure. Hannah’s home too....”

“That’s fine, I’d like to speak with her too.”

[burningwisdom]

My father and I... I am his namesake... and it's looking like his mirror image too. I love you dad. #MrCole #Antiguan #WadadliBred #AllSaints #BeefUp #ColeWorld #FatherAndSon