Emma sat beside me, her small body pressed against mine, seeking comfort and protection. I wrapped an arm around her, my grip firm, as if holding on tight enough could keep the world from falling apart. The younger officer, his name tag reading “Officer Jenkins,” pulled out a small notepad, flipping it open with practiced efficiency.

“Mrs. Collins,” he began, his voice steady yet gentle, “your daughter mentioned seeing something last night.” His eyes flickered to Emma, full of understanding and encouragement. “Emma, can you tell us exactly what you saw?”

Emma took a shaky breath, her voice barely a whisper. “I heard noises from the garage. It was late, and I thought maybe Dad was fixing something, but… but when I looked, I saw him with another man, and there was blood.”