Jack’s POV
The flashing red and blue lights reflected off the rotting walls of Rose’s childhood home, painting the night in chaotic streaks of color. Police officers swarmed the scene, moving in calculated efficiency, their radios crackling with updates. Margaret sat on the porch steps, her hands cuffed behind her back, her expression eerily calm.
I should have felt relief. Ellie was safe. Rose was safe. Margaret was in custody.
But I didn’t.
Because this wasn’t over.
Because Margaret was smiling.
I stood a few feet away, Ellie wrapped securely in my arms. She was shaking, her tiny fingers gripping my shirt so tightly I was sure she’d leave marks. Rose hovered close, her arms protectively curled around Ellie’s back.
Bruce and Brian stood near the police vehicles, keeping a watchful
