Trouble in Paradise (Arianna and Nicholas) novel Chapter 616

The movements Nicholas made seemed natural and affectionate to others. I couldn't help but curse under my breath, thinking that Nicholas was good at nothing but putting on a show.

Instinctively, I stepped away from him, putting some distance between us as I touched my flushed cheeks.

Upon seeing this, the doctor quickly took me into the first examination room.

Since I had mentioned Tabitha's anxiety in crowded settings, the room was kept relatively empty. Besides the doctor, only Nicholas, a nurse, and I remained. The session began with a series of questions aimed at interacting with Tabitha.

The questions were engaging at first, designed to draw her attention. She responded with nods and shakes of her head initially, but her interest quickly faded.

Soon, it was as if she no longer realized the doctor was speaking to her. Her thoughts drifted elsewhere, her focus completely lost.

I stepped in to guide her, trying my best to redirect her attention. After what felt like an eternity, the questioning ended. The doctor handed us a customized evaluation form for Tabitha to complete.

As I watched her work through it, my heart felt heavy. This evaluation would more or less confirm the extent of her autism. It didn't matter how mild or severe it was, my little girl was officially a child with autism.

Nicholas noticed my effort to hold back tears. Gently, he patted my shoulder and silently stayed by my side.

The memory of those lonely years abroad, carrying Tabitha from hospital to hospital, suddenly overwhelmed me. A bitter feeling welled up inside me.

I handed Tabitha over to Nicholas and stepped out to collect myself before returning. When I came back, Nicholas was watching me, his brows furrowed in concern.

"I'm fine," I mouthed silently. As a mother, I couldn't afford to crumble. I had to be stronger for her.

The nurse typed quickly on her computer, finalizing the session. Soon, she handed me a printed report detailing Tabitha's social interactions, language development, and behavioral patterns.

Next, Tabitha was taken into a special room designed as a simulated environment. The doctor observed her reactions through a glass partition as she explored the unfamiliar surroundings alone. Then, they sent in strangers to interact with her.