Chapter 65

Finally, after what felt like an eternity, Tom reached his suburban neighborhood. His chest tightened as he parked his car and sprinted towards his front door. As he flung it open, he was met with an electrifying silence. Panic coursed through his veins as he frantically searched each room, his heart pounding louder with each passing moment.

Then, he heard it. A soft whimper from the top of the stairs. Tom rushed towards the sound, his fatherly instincts kicking into overdrive. Bursting through Emily’s bedroom door, he found her curled up on her bed, her face buried in her hands. Her tear-streaked cheeks confirmed his worst fears.

“Emily, what’s wrong?” Tom pleaded, his voice laced with concern. He gently sat down beside her, wrapping his arms around her trembling frame. “You can tell me, sweetheart. I’m here for you.”

Emily’s sobs filled the room. Tom held his daughter tightly, waiting for her to find the strength to share her pain. Time seemed to stand still as t