"Where is Allison?”

I made my way down the sterile hospital corridor, the rhythmic tapping of my footsteps against the linoleum floor echoing softly. I could see the police officers in the distance, their uniforms in stark contrast against the muted colors of the hospital walls. As they caught sight of me, they began to close the gap between us. Their approach was measured and official.

We met halfway, and the lead officer extended his hand in greeting. I reached out, taking his hand in a firm handshake. "Is there any news?" I inquired, my eyes locking onto his, searching for any hint of what was to come.

The lines on his face seemed to deepen, and his eyes held a gravity that weighed heavily in the air. It was clear from his expression that the news was not going to be what I had hoped for.

"What happened?" I pressed, my voice steady but edged with a growing concern. My gaze didn't waver, demanding an answer, as I steeled myself for the impact of his words.

The officer's voice was tinged with regret as