Chapter 3 - The Sirens
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The flashing red and blue lights of the paramedics reflected against the massive crystal chandeliers in the foyer. The estate had devolved into a chaotic crime scene within minutes.
Two EMTs carefully strapped Lily onto a backboard, securing a cervical collar around her small neck. She was clutching Daniel’s hand so tightly her knuckles were white.
"Daddy, don't leave me," she cried, her eyes wide and terrified.
"I'm riding in the ambulance with you, baby," Daniel promised, kissing her forehead. "I'm right here."
"Sir, we need to move," the lead paramedic urged, hoisting the stretcher.
As Daniel moved to follow them out the heavy oak doors, a firm hand clamped down on his shoulder. He turned to find two uniformed police officers blocking his path.
"Mr. Bennett," the older officer said, his voice completely devoid of warmth. "You need to step away from the stretcher. We need to have a conversation."
"My daughter is going to the hospital," Daniel demanded, attempting to push past them. "I am going with her."
"Your daughter is in safe hands," the officer replied, stepping firmly into his path, resting a hand near his utility belt. "But right now, we have multiple witnesses who saw you strike your wife across the face. We need you to step into the study, sir."
Daniel looked past the officers. Across the foyer, Vanessa was sitting on a velvet bench, holding an ice pack to her cheek. She was surrounded by three female board members who were rubbing her shoulders and glaring at Daniel with absolute disgust.
Vanessa looked up, catching his eye. She gave a microscopic, pitiful shake of her head, playing the battered wife to absolute perfection.
"She pushed my daughter down the stairs," Daniel told the officer, his voice tight with desperation.
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"That's not what the witnesses are saying, sir," the officer replied coldly. "They say the girl tripped, and you flew into an unprovoked rage. Now, are you going to walk into the study voluntarily, or are we going to do this in handcuffs in front of your guests?"
Daniel looked at the ambulance doors closing outside. He was trapped. He nodded slowly, allowing the officers to escort him away from his child.
