Officer Parker turned to her, struggling to find the right words. “We’re going to take care of them, sweetheart. Why don’t you come with me to the other room?”

He led her gently away, settling her on the living room couch. “What’s your name?”

“Lily,” she replied, her eyes wide and innocent, searching his face for reassurance.

“Lily, do you remember anything unusual that happened before you went to bed?”

She shook her head, her curls bouncing slightly. “I was in my room playing with Mr. Teddy. Then I went to sleep. When I woke up, I went to their room, but…” her voice trailed off, eyes glistening with confusion and fear.

The sound of sirens approaching broke the oppressive quiet. Officer Lewis directed the paramedics inside, who hurried into the bedroom. They worked swiftly, but it was only moments before they re-emerged, their expressions grim. Officer Parker’s fear was confirmed — they were too late.

The medics looked at the officers, a silent understanding passing between them. This was now a crime scene. Officer Parker felt a sharp pang of sympathy for the little girl, who seemed so small and fragile amidst the unfolding chaos.

As the house bustled with activity and investigation, Lily remained the focal point of concern. A child welfare officer arrived, kneeling to Lily’s level, speaking in gentle, soothing tones. Meanwhile, detectives scoured the home for clues. They noted the absence of any signs of struggle or forced entry. Everything seemed eerily normal, except for the tragic scene in the bedroom.

Officer Parker stayed close to Lily, ensuring she felt safe. He couldn’t shake the feeling of unease, the question that lingered in the air: what had happened to her parents? The house had no visible threats, no clear answers.

As dawn approached, the quiet house was now a hive of activity, each investigator piecing together parts of an unsettling puzzle. In that moment, Officer Parker made a silent vow to Lily. He promised himself that he would find out what had happened here. For her sake, and for the sake of the couple whose lives had been so abruptly and mysteriously taken, the truth would be uncovered.