Brenda’s mind raced at the implications. CPS meant opening their home and Stacey’s life to scrutiny. She glanced at her daughter, who was now sobbing uncontrollably into her pillow. Stacey’s distress deepened with every mention of CPS, making it clear this situation was far from simple.
“Mom, please don’t…” Stacey’s muffled voice broke through her sobs, but she wouldn’t lift her head. Brenda hesitated, her heart torn between protecting the baby and shielding Stacey. She reached out to comfort her daughter, but Stacey recoiled, burying herself deeper into the pillow.