He placed several telephone calls.

Soon, the cemetery manager approached.

I overheard discussions concerning emergency protocols, official authorization, and contacting the proper medical authorities.

I understood they couldn’t simply reopen a grave because a family member requested it.

Nevertheless, Sergeant Miller considered my concerns serious enough to examine the paperwork and request immediate assistance.

Ethan remained seated beside me on a nearby bench.

His hands were trembling.

I draped my jacket around his shoulders.

“Daddy?”

“I’m here, buddy.”

“Will they help Mommy?”

I struggled to swallow.

“They’re going to figure out what’s happening.”

He glanced toward the burial site.

“She’s really scared.”

I pulled him close.

“I know you’re frightened too.”

He shook his head firmly.

“No, Daddy. I really heard her.”

I chose not to argue.

Instead, I kept holding him.

Then an unexpected development changed everything.

One of the cemetery workers approached Sergeant Miller.

He was a young employee called Aaron, dressed in a dark green coat and mud-covered work boots.

“Officer,” he murmured, “I think there’s something important you should hear.”

Sergeant Miller moved aside to speak privately.

Their conversation lasted less than sixty seconds.

Then the sergeant glanced toward Daniel.

His face grew serious.

“What did he tell you?” I asked urgently.

Sergeant Miller returned to me.

“Mr. Walker, an employee, reports hearing something unusual around the burial equipment shortly after the casket was lowered.”

My heartbeat quickened.

“What exactly did he hear?”

“He remembers a faint tapping sound.”

I stared at the officer.

“Coming from the coffin?”

He paused briefly.

“He couldn’t determine where it originated. At the time, he assumed it came from machinery or equipment shifting.”

I immediately rose.

“Then somebody needs to investigate!”

Sergeant Miller lifted one hand.

“We’re arranging that now.”

Without warning, Daniel turned and headed toward the parking area.

The younger officer spoke loudly.

“Sir, we still need to speak with you.”

Daniel froze.

He slowly turned around.

His complexion looked drained.

And for the first time, I noticed an expression in his eyes that resembled unmistakable fear.