Little girl gives a secret signal to the royal guard. He stops the entire parade in shock..

I believed you, he said simply, and I always will. The words, spoken with absolute conviction, seemed to penetrate the layers of fear that had built up around Lily’s heart. For the first time since she’d arrived at the palace, her shoulders relaxed slightly, and her eyes held something besides terror, the first fragile spark of trust.

Officer Wilson wrapped a blanket around Lily’s shoulders after the palace medical team documented her injuries. The elderly couple and other witnesses had provided their contact information. Marwood, relieved from ceremonial duty, sat outside the palace medical office.

He’d removed his bearskin cap, revealing close-cropped dark hair. Sergeant Marwood, Officer Wilson approached, Lily’s asking for you. Inside, Lily sat with hot chocolate, her injuries treated.

When Marwood entered, her face brightened. You came back, she said surprised. I said I would, Marwood replied, taking the chair beside her.

How are you feeling? Better, she studied him curiously. You look different without your big hat. A small smile crossed Marwood’s face.

Most people say that. Lily’s been telling us about her situation, Officer Wilson said quietly. Her mother passed away fourteen months ago, and her stepfather gained custody as the only legal guardian.

He was nice at first, Lily said, gripping her mug. But then he changed. He said it was my fault, that I was bad.

None of this was your fault, Marwood said firmly. You were very brave today. What happens now? Lily asked, voice small.

Where will I go? Child services will arrange emergency foster care while the case is processed, Officer Wilson explained. Foster care? Fear returned to Lily’s face. Sam said, foster homes are horrible places where nobody loves you.

That’s not true, Officer Wilson assured her. Foster parents are carefully screened and… What if, Marwood interrupted, pausing briefly, what if there was another option? Both looked at him questioningly. I’m certified as an emergency foster parent through the Family Support Programme, Marwood explained.

It’s part of our service to military families in crisis. He turned to Lily. I can’t promise it would be perfect.

I’ve never been a father before, but I can promise you would be safe and never hurt again. Are you suggesting temporary placement, Officer Wilson asked. Initially, yes, Marwood confirmed, eyes on Lily.

But I’d like to begin the adoption process as soon as possible, if Lily would be comfortable with that. The word adoption hung in the air. Lily’s eyes widened, disbelief and hope warring on her face…