“So, tell me. What exactly happened?” Riccardo asked as soon as they stepped inside his house, his voice calm but firm.
Vanessa sighed, running a hand through her hair as she tried to collect her thoughts. “It all started in my house earlier today. I got back and…” She stopped, her voice cracking slightly. “My house was turned upside down. Furniture was broken, drawers were empty, and...” She inhaled deeply, steadying herself. “I found this.”
She held up Emily’s cracked phone. “It was in the car, and the car was empty. The kids and Emily… they’re gone.” Her voice trembled as she finished.
Riccardo’s eyes darkened, his jaw tightening. “Do you think you can help me find them?” she asked, desperation thick in her voice.
“Yes,” Riccardo said firmly, giving her a small nod. “I’ll try my bes
