face, and she looked between our mother and me, a growing horror in her eyes. This wasn’t how she wanted it to unfold. Her lie had spiraled into violence, into something none of us could control.

The minutes stretched on like hours, the house a blur of chaos and fear. I held Lily close, whispering soothing words, promising her that everything would be alright. I couldn’t allow myself to think otherwise.

When the paramedics arrived, they moved swiftly, their calm professionalism a welcome relief amid the pandemonium. They assessed Lily, their faces grave but reassuring as they assured me she’d be okay.