Chapter 56. Distress

Lola was abruptly awakened by the sound of sharp crying, piercing through the silence of the early dawn. Startled and filled with concern, she sprang out of bed, her feet carrying her swiftly towards Lottie’s room. With each step, her heartbeat quickened, echoing the urgency of her niece’s distress.

As Lola neared the door, she saw Leo, pale and trembling, frantically attempting to open it. His hands shook as he struggled with the doorknob, his face etched with fear and worry. Without hesitation, Lola rushed to his side, her own worry fueling her determination.

“Leo, step back,” she urged, her voice firm yet laced with a sense of urgency. “Let me handle this.”

Leo, his trust in Lola unshaken, complied and stepped away from the door. His eyes followed her every move, wide with anticipation and concern. Taking a deep breath to steady herself, Lola positioned herself in front of the door, her mind focused on the task at hand.

With a surge of adrenaline, she drew