The panel swung open to reveal a tiny dark space inside.
A small blanket was neatly spread across the dusty floorboards.
Empty snack wrappers were piled up neatly in the corner.
The little girl squeezed herself tightly against the back wall.
She clutched a small plush doll against her chest in fear.
David stared into the dark space with absolute shock and grief.
He could not comprehend why a child lived in a wall.
David: Don't be afraid, I won't hurt you.
He extended his open hand toward her inside the cabinet.
The little girl squeezed her tear-filled eyes shut tightly.
She shook her small head while gasping for soft air.
Lily: Who are you?
David felt a sharp pain deep inside his heavy chest.
He recognized the distinct shape of her gentle bright eyes.
They looked exactly like his late wife's soft eyes.
Four years ago, his wife had tragically passed in hospital.
Their newborn daughter had been pronounced dead that same tragic night.
Sarah had handled all the medical paperwork and legal matters then.
David had trusted his stepmother completely during that painful trial.
He had grieved for his missing baby for four long years.
Now this little girl looked so much like his lost family.
David leaned closer to the dark opening with trembling shoulders.
The child slowly reached her small right hand toward his face.
Her fingers gently touched his warm skin and wet cheek.
Lily: Daddy.
David froze completely as the quiet word hit his ears.
Tears spilled over his eyes and down his clean cheeks.
David: How do you know that word, sweetie?
Sarah: Stop listening to this foolish girl right now!