Theresa heard the gunshots and Damian's desperate cry from outside. Her heart pounded as she grabbed Pearl and her baby and ushered them quickly into the room. She knelt down, cupping Pearl’s small teary face in her hands.
“Stay here, okay? Don’t come out until I come get you,” she whispered urgently. “You’re a big girl now, Pearl. Look after the baby for me, alright?”
Pearl's eyes were wide with fear, but she nodded quickly, clutching the baby close on the bed.
Theresa gave her a reassuring smile closing the door behind her, though worry gnawed at her insides. She hesitated for a moment, glancing at the door, then hurried to the window. Her breath caught as she peeked outside.
There, in Damian’s arms, Melissa lay motionless, blood stained on the ground under them.
Theresa felt her
