“Your daughters came here asking for protection. They will remain inside until they receive an independent medical evaluation.”
The ambulance entered through a side gate, and two paramedics hurried in. One began examining Elsie while the other sat with Avery and asked about the liquid.
“It was clear,” Avery said. “It smelled sweet, like the wipes Dad keeps in his office.”
“Did he give any to you?”
“He said I was next, but Elsie started folding over. I grabbed her coat and ran.”
Outside, Nolan paced beneath the station awning while making several calls. Then Ethan saw him unzip the front compartment of the pink backpack and glance inside. He closed it quickly and turned toward his vehicle.
