CHAPTER 37: A CRY FOR HELP 

Marie It was already evening, and parents were slowly gathering their children. The daycare opening had been a success, filled with laughter, games, and the sound of children running freely through the lush grass. I stood by the picnic table, packing up the remnants of our meal, when I felt a tug on my skirt. “Marie?” a small voice whispered. I looked down to see Caleb, his wide brown eyes staring up at me with a hint of sadness. His little hands clung to the hem of my skirt as if letting go would send him adrift. He had the kind of cherubic face that could melt the hardest heart—rosy cheeks, soft brown curls, and a mouth that was just beginning to learn the art of a smile. “Yes, sweetheart?” I asked, crouching down to his level. I couldn’t help but smile at him, even as the weariness of the day settled into my bones. Caleb had been a joy all day, his laughter infectious, his energy boundless. “Can I stay with you tonight?” he asked, his voice barely above a whisper yet so filled