Later that evening, Richard sat on the edge of Emily’s bed. The room was softly lit by a bedside lamp, casting warm shadows across the walls, a stark contrast to the tension that hung heavy in the air. Michael was curled up beside Emily, both children clinging to their father as if afraid he might disappear.
“Dad, will she have to leave?” Emily whispered, glancing nervously at the door as if Vanessa might burst in at any moment.
Richard wrapped his arms around his children, pulling them closer. “I don’t know yet, pumpkin. But I promise you, I’m going to do everything I can to make sure you’re safe. No one should ever make you feel scared in your own home.”
