Chapter 2 — The Ambulance Doors Closed
The paramedics reached Ava within minutes.
One knelt beside her, checking her pupils.
Another carefully stabilized her neck.
"Three-year-old female," he called. "Head trauma. Possible concussion. Prepare for transport."
I refused to let go of her hand.
Daniel squeezed my shoulder.
"They'll take care of her."
As the stretcher rolled toward the ambulance, Detective Sarah Mitchell stepped through the front door.
She had been invited to the party by another guest—a family friend.
She had seen enough.
Her eyes immediately landed on the leather belt still hanging from my father's hand.
"Sir," she said calmly, "place the belt on the counter."
Richard frowned.
"This is a family matter."
"No," Detective Mitchell replied.
"It's now a criminal investigation."
For the first time that evening, my father's confidence falved.
Guests quietly stepped aside as officers began taking statements.
Then Detective Mitchell approached me.
"As soon as your daughter is stable," she said gently, "I'd like to hear everything."
I looked back toward my parents.
May you like
Neither of them had asked whether Ava was alive.
Not once.
