Linda had already whipped out her radio, her previous calm demeanor replaced by urgency. “Dispatch, this is Officer Perez. We have a possible overdose at 112 Birchwood Street. We need an ambulance immediately.”

As Linda relayed their location and the details, Daniel turned his attention back to Emily. “Emily, do you know what happened to your mom? Did she take these pills?” he asked gently, not wanting to frighten her further but needing crucial information.

Emily nodded slowly, her small body trembling. “She was crying a lot and said she just wanted to sleep and not feel sad anymore. I didn’t know what to do, so I ran to find help.”