My four-year-old daughter, Emma, stood completely still for a moment—then suddenly rushed toward the pastor, shouting something that brought the entire room into stunned silence.

There was another silence, this time more violent, because that phrase transformed the funeral hall into something else.

It was no longer just a place of farewell.

It was becoming a potential crime scene.

Miriam glanced quickly towards the front door and I knew then that she was planning her escape.

Not to defend oneself.

Do not clarify.

Escape.