Natalie's Return?
After hanging up, Anastasia moved swiftly to check all the doors and windows, ensuring everything was locked tight. Each click of the lock echoed in her mind, heightening her sense of urgency. She returned to Lily's room, where her daughter was now engrossed in her plush bunny, seemingly unaffected by the tension in the air.
"Okay, my little one, let's stay close until Aunt Diya gets here," Anastasia said, settling onto the floor beside Lily. She pulled a few toys into a circle, hoping to distract her and create a sense of calm amidst the chaos. "How about a little playtime? We can have a tea party with your bunny."
Lily looked up, her eyes lighting up at the mention of a tea party. "Bunny! Tea!" she exclaimed, her tiny hands clapping in delight.
Their little happiness was disturbed by a call from Anastasia's phone. She couldn't hide it—every little sound that suddenly echoed in the house shook her with fear.