Chapter 35

As Daniel, Victor, and Jakes emerged from the building's entrance, Helen's eyes widened in surprise. She couldn't fathom why they'd left without Juliet and her family. Questions swirled in her mind, but she knew she'd have to wait until they were all aboard the bus to ask.

Daniel swung open the bus door, his face clouded with sorrow. Traces of dried tears streaked his cheeks, and a palpable sense of regret hung in the air. Helen sensed something dreadful had occurred to leave Daniel in such a state, but she needed to know about the fate of the little girl.

"Hey, Daniel, where's the little one and her family? What happened?" Helen inquired, her voice tinged with concern.

"I couldn't save her," Daniel choked out between sobs.

"You did all you could, Daniel. I'm sure of it," Helen said soothingly, placing a comforting hand on his back.

"I should've taken her away," Daniel lamented.