RESILIENCE

PART ONE :( chapter 3 & chapter 4)

Chapter Three: A Family's Struggle with a Painful Secret

The day seemed brighter than any other day. It had been four months since Raynell was admitted to the state hospital. She was undergoing treatment, with her parents and brothers anxiously waiting outside her ward for her doctor's report on her current health. Dr. Smith Carlos, a middle-aged and well-educated physician, emerged from Raynell's room with a bright smile. He asked Mr. Badmus to speak privately, leading them to his office.

In his office, Dr. Carlos began, "I've been treating your daughter for months with no positive recovery. I had informed you of the risk due to her assault. The good news is, she's okay now. The bad news is she's four months pregnant. You can take her home tomorrow."

Mr. Badmus, silent during the discussion, emerged with a heavy heart. Mrs. Badmus, seeing her husband's distress, rushed to inquire about their child's health. She asked with tension, "What was the doctor's report?"

Mr. Badmus replied emotionlessly, "There's no need to ask. She's coming home, but she's pregnant, and it pains me. She's suffered too much these past four months."

The couple sat in sadness as they comforted each other. Their home appeared more beautiful than ever to Raynell, who had endured much. Her mother welcomed her warmly, promising her favorite meal to aid her recovery. The Badmus family did their best to keep Raynell happy, avoiding any mention of her pregnancy.

After enjoying her favorite dish, Raynell retreated to her room, where her past nightmares resurfaced. She fought back tears, avoiding the pain and shame she felt. She harbored a painful secret - her family didn't know that her older brother, Matthew, was responsible for her ordeal.

The sound of the door opening interrupted her thoughts. Mrs. Badmus entered with snacks and juice, offering a warm smile. Raynell forced a smile, declining the food. Mrs. Badmus explained that they had decided she should have her meals in her room to avoid prying eyes and neighborhood gossip.

Raynell inquired about returning to school, but Mrs. Badmus had to defer the decision due to her condition. She left, leaving Raynell with the promise to discuss it with her father.

Later, Raynell took a shower, had her meal, and went to sleep. In the living room, Mr. and Mrs. Badmus argued about Raynell's return to school. He insisted she shouldn't go until the baby was born and taken care of, while Mrs. Badmus suggested she attend for a month or two to avoid boredom and painful memories.

Mr. Badmus stood firm, offering home lessons as an alternative. He left for a shower, and Mrs. Badmus kept her silence to prevent further disagreements. She silently wished for a brighter future for Raynell and harbored a hope that those who had caused her pain would face justice.

Chapter Four: Unexpected Confrontation"

Raynell was left at home, bored and lonely, as school had resumed. She wondered if her mom had kept her promise, and why she was still at home. With high hopes, she prepared for school, packing her notebooks. Seeing her ready, Mr. Badmus felt sad, wishing he didn't have to break the news that she couldn't attend school and needed home lessons.

As she called out to him excitedly, Mr. Badmus reluctantly explained that the doctor had advised her to rest for at least three weeks. Raynell tried to persuade him, but her dad stood firm, stating she wouldn't attend school for a year.

Raynell ran to her room, crying and angry, hoping her parents would understand her situation and allow her to return to school. She spent the past hour crying, occasionally writing her novel.

Mrs. Badmus, concerned, talked to Raynell about her dad's decision. Raynell expressed her desire to go back to school, but her parents were only looking out for her.

Raynell requested that her brother, Matthew, leave, as his presence reminded her of painful memories. Her mother declined the request firmly.

Matthew, aware of his past actions towards Raynell, contemplated speaking with her. However, his parents kept a close eye on her room, leaving him worried about their potential reactions.

Andrew, on the phone, talked about someone as a role model. Matthew tried to ask who it was, but Andrew ignored him.

Finally, Matthew knocked on Raynell's door, seeking to talk. Raynell slapped him for his past actions, revealing a dark secret about him. Their father overheard, confronted Matthew, and expelled him from the house, shocked by his son's actions.

Matthew pleaded for forgiveness, but Mr. Badmus was adamant and pushed him out, packing his belongings and shutting the door.