When Officer Ruiz returned to the hospital, he approached Laura with a gravity that spoke volumes. “Mrs. Carter, I need to speak with you about what we found,” he said gently. Taking her aside, he carefully explained the contents of the box and the seriousness of the situation. Laura listened in stunned silence, each word a fresh wound to her heart. But amidst the horror, there was also a sense of relief. Now they had the evidence needed to hold Mark accountable.

“We’re doing everything we can to find him,” Ruiz assured her, his voice steady. “I promise you, we will keep Emily safe.”