His heart was heavy with a mix of urgency and compassion. As he stepped out of his patrol car, he could see the curtains move slightly. A pair of small eyes peered out, then quickly disappeared. He knocked gently on the door, his mind racing with possibilities.
Inside, Liliana clutched the phone tightly. Vanessa’s comforting voice still in her ear, she shuffled to the door, her small frame dwarfed by the large wooden structure. Mustering all her courage, she turned the knob and opened the door slightly.
“Hi, Liliana,” Officer López greeted softly, kneeling to her level. His eyes were kind, just like Vanessa had promised. “I’m here to help you.”
