Page 35 of Primal God

“Diego made some significant progress today.”

“Does that mean…”

“He spoke, yes.” She smiles. “He said he liked you.”

My eyes water. “He…he said that?”

“Indeed. It seems you’ve been a great help in making him feel safe.”

My throat burns, and I have to clear it twice before I can speak. “Did he not feel safe before?”

“Dr. Santos didn’t tell you why Diego sees me?”

I shake my head, and she frowns.

“Since Dr. Santos signed the HIPPA release form, listing you as an authorized contact, I suppose it’s okay to tell you. Diego hasn’t spoken since he found his mother.”

Horror spreads through me.

“He found her?”

She nods. “Mrs. Santos had passed out and was in distress after going into premature labor. Diego was able to get help, but after that, he withdrew into himself. Since then, he speaks a word here and there. I believe it’s his coping mechanism for his trauma.”

Oh my god. Poor Diego! I’m sure that was so scary for him!

“Is there anything I can do to help him?”

She smiles. “Whatever you’re doing seems to help just fine.” But then her smile fades. “I brought you in here because I don’t want you to let Dr. Santos know.”

“What? Why?”

“Dr. Santos has Diego’s best interest at heart.”

“But?”

“But I fear that he may press Diego, which isn’t what Diego needs.”

“It’s happened before?”

“Once. When Isadora started speaking, Diego said a few words, and Dr. Santos was understandably happy. But when Diego didn’t speak again, Dr. Santos pressed him.”

I wince, knowing how hard it had to be for both of them. And the doctor wouldn’t be asking if she didn’t think it was best for Diego.

I nod. “I won’t say anything.”

“Thank you. I have high hopes that this is a breakthrough for Diego. With any luck, Diego himself will let Dr. Santos know of his progress.”

“Is it…should I mention what happened today to Diego?”

She weighs my question carefully.

“I don’t think it will hurt.”

I nod. “Okay. Thank you.”

“No, thank you, Nanny W. You’ve been a great help to both Clara and Diego. I can see the difference myself.”

“Please, call me Lili.”

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