81 Winona Don't!

(Jayden)

I watched Winona and Ashlyn near the top of the stairs at Palisades Park, their bodies locked in a struggle.

I want to intervene, but I need to stay with the kids. My mind races as I try to process what's happening.

Abby tugs at my shirt, her eyes wide with confusion and fear. "Daddy, why is Mommy hurting that lady?" she asks, her voice trembling.

Before I can respond, the officer who had just left to get coffee comes rushing back.

He sees the struggle and sprints toward them, shouting for them to stop.

The commotion has drawn a small crowd of onlookers, and my stomach knots with anxiety.

"Stay here," I tell Abby and the other kids, my voice firm but gentle. "Everything is going to be okay."

I try to keep my eyes on the scene, watching in horror as it looks like Winona is pushing Ashlyn toward the edge.

Ashlyn screams, "No, Winona! Don't!"

Then she falls, her body rolling down the steep stairs in a terrifying blur.

Winona stands there, her face a mix of shock and rage,