The delicate brass mechanisms — gears that had survived ocean storms and decades of history — burst apart, pinging off the stainless steel appliances.

For a moment the only sound was the faint tink-tink of a loose gear spinning on the hardwood.

Robert fell to his knees. He didn’t reach for his daughter. He reached for a piece of the shattered glass, hands trembling violently. A small cut opened on his thumb, a bead of bright blood welling up, but he didn’t seem to feel it.

Madison stood chest heaving. For a split second, a flash of regret crossed her face — then her pride smothered it. “Look what you made me do,” she whispered, staring at me.

Officer Daniels placed a firm hand on her shoulder. “Ma’am. Step away. Now.”

Evan was already walking toward the guest room, head down, defeated.