During the funeral, a raven landed on the girl’s coffin. A second later, everyone present went SPEAK…

Owen had enough. He grabbed Michael’s arm and dragged him away. “Get out of here,” he said coldly. “You don’t belong here.”

Returning to Emily, Owen wrapped her in his arms. “We’ll get through this, I promise,” he whispered, but the words felt frail against their loss. They both knew nothing could bring Lily back.

At home, Emily could barely stand. Her world felt meaningless, memories of Lily tormenting her. The phone rang, and she answered with trembling hands. “Hello?” Her voice was lifeless.

“It’s Detective Harper,” a man said. “We’ve arrested Abigail Carter.”

Emily’s heart stopped. “Abigail?” she whispered, grasping for clarity.

“Yes, we have enough evidence. She’s in custody, and we’re preparing for trial. I thought you’d want to know.”

A week later, the trial concluded. Abigail was sentenced to seven years in prison—a punishment that felt inadequate for stealing their daughter. As Abigail was led from the courtroom in handcuffs, she glared at Emily with venom. “This is for ruining my family and trying to take what’s mine!” she spat, her rage palpable. “Burn in hell!”

Emily’s heart froze. Abigail’s words carved a deep wound. Owen hugged her, trying to offer solace, but the pain was too vast for words to soothe.

Life moved on, but Emily was forever changed. Even with justice served, a gaping wound remained in her soul, one nothing could heal.