Andre's POV
My car had barely stopped in front of Meryl's father's house when the entire family came rushing out. They'd been waiting on the porch, their faces etched with worry and fear that made my stomach twist.
My mother reached the passenger door first, pulling it open with trembling hands. "Sweetheart," she whispered, her voice breaking as she helped Meryl step out carefully. Meryl moved like she was made of glass, nodding silently as she accepted my mother's gentle support.
Her father stood frozen nearby, looking like he'd aged ten years in the past few hours. His face had gone ashen, and despite his attempts to appear strong, tears streamed down his cheeks. The guilt radiating from him was almost tangible.
"Mommy!" Gavin's voice cut through the heavy silence as he sprinted toward her.
