The sound of sirens grew louder, and Helen stayed on the line, reassuring Mia with calming words. In the distance, the emergency lights flashed through the neighborhood as the paramedics and police arrived at the small, green house with the chipped paint and broken flower pot.
Officer James Caldwell was the first to approach the door, his partner close behind. “Mia? This is Officer Caldwell. We’re here to help,” he called out, knocking gently on the door. There was a short pause before they heard the click of the lock and the door creaked open, revealing a small, fragile-looking girl with tear-streaked cheeks.
“Hi, Mia,” Officer Caldwell said softly, crouching to meet her eye level. “Can we come in?”
