Slowly, he pulled back, and as his lips left the top of my head, I raised my gaze to meet his. It was then that I noticed his attention was now directed over my head toward Ace and Lexson. Without saying a word, my dad shifted me to his side, his arm securely wrapped around my shoulders, and Lily moved closer to us. She took my hand in hers, and I returned the reassuring gesture, finding comfort in her gentle touch. She gave me one of her signature small, sweet smiles that always seemed to convey a message of hope and reassurance.
Just then, I heard my dad inquire, "Are you the police?"
Dad directed his question to both Ace and Lexson, seeking to understand their roles.
"Yes, sir, Detective Nate Lexson," Lexson responded, taking a step forward to introduce himself. Dad extended his h
