Harper glanced downward and began rubbing at the shield using both palms, desperate yet speechless, acting as though rapid movement alone could reverse the damage.
I was already stepping in Stella’s direction when the audio equipment screeched.
A harsh noise echoed violently across the room.
Every person pivoted.
Evelyn stood beside the music equipment holding a mic within one trembling grip. Her complexion had turned chalky.
“Stella,” she stated. “Do you have any clue who that officer happens to be?”
Stella fluttered her eyelashes, chuckling once in pure shock. “Mother, what exactly are you attempting?”
“That man would never be embarrassed by his daughter.” She stopped briefly. “He would be terribly embarrassed by your behavior.”
Stella’s grin began to drop. “What on earth are you speaking about?”
“You were very small, you possess no memory of it, and I never shared the details because I wished to shield your mind,” Evelyn explained. “I never desired for you to realize how narrowly we escaped losing you. A terrible crash occurred. You were trapped in the rear passenger area. I was unable to reach you since the metal frame was completely smashed.”
The crowd stepped closer to listen.
“The vehicle was burning. First responders informed me afterward it could have exploded at any moment.” Her tone wavered. “He refused to delay. He smashed the glass and dragged you to safety using his unprotected fingers. You were crying loudly. He simply repeated over and over, ‘You are secure now. You are secure now.’”
Next, she extended her finger.
Directly at Harper.
Directly at the shiny shield.
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