The room fell silent. Lily clutched Emma’s hand, trembling. Emma felt a surge of resolve rise in her chest. Whatever came next, Lily would be protected. “Get out,” Emma said firmly. “I’m calling the police.”

Mark hesitated, then nodded, the confidence gone from his voice. Without another word, he left the room, the house, and finally drove away into the night. Only then did Emma allow herself to breathe.

She knelt beside Lily and wrapped her in a tight embrace. “You’re safe now,” she whispered. “I’m here.”“I’m sorry, Mommy,” Lily sobbed.

Emma shook her head, tears falling freely. “You did nothing wrong. I love you more than anything.” As dawn crept through the window, Emma knew difficult days lay ahead. But in that moment, holding her daughter close, she also knew one thing for certain: together, they would survive.