Daniel opened the home security system.
Victoria stood behind him.
Emma remained near the doorway.
The recording showed Sophie entering the living room.
Victoria followed.
At first, they were only arguing.
Then Sophie began backing away.
Emma appeared from the hallway and moved quickly toward the child.
Daniel leaned closer to the screen.
Victoria reached toward Sophie.
Emma stepped between them.
The video did not show every detail clearly.
But it showed enough.
Sophie had not simply fallen by herself.
Daniel paused the recording.
Victoria looked away.
You lied to me.
She immediately replied.
I panicked.
Daniel turned.
About what?
Victoria started crying.
I knew how it would look.
Daniel pointed toward the screen.
It looks like my daughter was frightened and Emma was the only person protecting her.
Victoria shook her head.
I wasn’t trying to hurt her.
Daniel answered quietly.
Intent does not erase what happened.
Emma looked down.
Daniel turned toward her.
Thank you for staying with Sophie.
Emma nodded.
Then Daniel looked back at Victoria.
Pack a bag.
Her face changed.
Daniel.
Not tonight.
I need my daughter to feel safe in her own home.
For once, Victoria had no answer.
Comments (0)