"Mumma!"
Silas's cry split through the smoky air. The moment his eyes caught the sight of the burning mansion—his little body trembled as if the ground beneath him had cracked.
His voice, sharp with panic and desperation, caught the attention of nearby firefighters. The men in heavy gear rushed forward, blocking him before he could sprint towards the fire.
"Stay back, kid! It's dangerous!" one of them yelled, kneeling down to grab Silas by the shoulders and gently push him away.
"Where is my mom?!" Silas shouted, trying to shove past their arms. His limbs flailed against their grips, but he was just a child against trained adults, and his efforts only made his sobs grow louder.
