Nathan sat in the waiting room, his uniform still dusty from travel, his mind racing. Images of Lila smiling in video calls flashed before him — her soft voice saying, “I’m fine, Daddy.” Now he understood why she always spoke so quietly when Diana was nearby.

Detectives soon arrived. One of them, Officer Reynolds, gently asked questions about Diana’s behavior. Nathan’s hands clenched as he recounted what he had seen. Diana tried to defend herself, claiming Lila was “clumsy” and “needed discipline,” but the bruises told another story.

Hours later, Lila regained consciousness. Her father was the first face she saw. “Daddy,” she whispered weakly, tears rolling down her cheeks. Nathan’s eyes softened. He stroked her hair and said, “You’re safe now. I promise.”