Donna stared at the policemen and said nothing. After 30 seconds, I accompanied them to the door, said thank you, and sat by Donna. She was in shock and didn't move, talk, or cry. I hugged her, but got no reaction. After 5 minutes, I helped her to her room, removed her slippers, laid her in bed, and stayed by her side. After half an hour, I noticed her eyes were closed and her breathing was monotonous. I tiptoed out of the room and waited for Erin to return.

Erin arrived 15 minutes later, smiling. She saw my sad face and inquired what had happened. We sat on the sofa,...