A tall officer in a dark blue uniform walked in, carrying a leather folio.

“Mrs. Parker?” he asked.

“I’m Detective Vance.”

“Your father called me.”

“I am here to take your formal statement regarding the events at the suburban residence.”

I looked at my father, who gave me a reassuring nod.

“I’m ready,” I said, pulling the blanket up to my waist.

Detective Vance sat in the chair my father vacated.

He opened his folio and pulled out a black ink pen.

“Let’s start with the physical contact,” he said.

“You mentioned your sister-in-law, Courtney, physically restrained you.”

“Yes,” I said, my voice stronger now.

“She grabbed me by both arms and dragged me away from the exit.”

“I have the bruises to prove it.”

“And your mother-in-law withheld your medication?” he asked, writing.

“Yes,” I said.

“Patricia hid my beta-blockers.”

“She told me I was faking my condition.”

The detective nodded, his expression grim as he noted down the details.

“This is very consistent with the medical report we received from the admitting physician,” he said.

“We are preparing charges for domestic abuse and unlawful restraint.”