Not even of scandal.
She was afraid that someone she trusted had been hiding something from her inside the very walls she had spent her life guarding.
She dialed Doctor Paloma’s number.
The doctor answered after the fourth ring.
“Paloma speaking.”
“It is Mother Caridad.”
A small silence followed.
“Mother,” the doctor said, her voice brightening with professional warmth. “Is one of the sisters unwell?”
“I need you to come to the convent.”
“Of course. What has happened?”
Mother Caridad looked toward the open doorway.
In the corridor beyond, she could hear soft footsteps, the clink of cups from the kitchen, and Sister Esperanza singing quietly to one of the children.
“She believes she is pregnant again.”
This time, Doctor Paloma did not answer immediately.
Mother Caridad felt her fingers tighten around the receiver.
“Doctor?”
“I heard you,” Paloma said.
There was something in her tone now—not surprise, but weariness.
“You do not sound shocked.”
