The truth has a way of unraveling even the strongest lies—and that night, everything began to fall apart.
When the officers entered, a chill filled the air. “We need to ensure everyone’s safety, Mrs. Collins,” one said gently.
Emma clung to my hand, trembling. I sat beside her. “You did the right thing,” I whispered.
“I didn’t want to get Daddy in trouble,” she murmured, tears in her eyes.
The officer asked about Daniel. “He’s a surgeon,” I said. “Stressed, often called in late—but never violent. This must be a mistake.”
Yet memories of his late returns, the metallic scent, and his silence flooded back.
As Emma haltingly told her story, guilt crushed me. How had I missed the signs?
They asked me to call Daniel—voicemail. As they began their search, I held Emma close, whispering reassurances I no longer believed.
One question echoed in my mind: Who is Daniel—and did I ever really know him?
