The doctor arrived at noon, a quiet woman named Dr. Sarah Chen who introduced herself as Robert's cousin and asked no unnecessary questions. She set up her examination in the downstairs study, drawing curtains against the afternoon light and creating a space that felt more like a sanctuary than a medical office.

"I'd like to examine you first, Emma," Dr. Chen said, her voice carrying the professional warmth of someone who had done this many times before. "Then I'll look at the children ...