Ryan was out of the car in seconds, kneeling so they were eye to eye.

“What’s your name, sweetheart?”

“L-Lila,” she whispered between sobs.

“I’m Officer Ryan. You’re safe now. Can you show me your house?”

She nodded, tugging urgently at his hand. “Hurry, please!”

No hesitation—he followed her. She darted through side streets, her little legs moving fast despite her ragged breaths.

When they reached the house, his instincts tightened.

The lawn was overgrown, the mailbox leaned to one side, and the front door was ajar.