“It was my dad and his friend. Please help me.”

A Child’s Voice On The Line

Vanessa’s heart tightened. She had heard children before, but something in this voice—fragile, breaking—felt different.

“Sweetheart, this is Vanessa. I’m right here with you. Can you tell me your name?”

“…Lily.”

“How old are you, Lily?”

“Seven.”

Vanessa pressed her palm to her notepad to steady herself. She leaned in, speaking gently, as if Lily were sitting right beside her.

“Okay, Lily. You’re very brave. Can you tell me what happened with your dad and his friend?”