The drive to kindergarten was a quiet ride, both of us lost in our thoughts. Upon arriving at the school entrance, I called Laura and asked her to bring Mason out. Ten minutes later, Laura emerged, holding Mason's hand.

When Mason saw my parents, his face lit up, and he ran to us, jumping into my arms. "Mommy! Daddy! Why are you here?" he asked, bubbling over with excitement.

I (Lyon) and Sofia Lanka exchanged a look before I (Sofia Lanka) crouched down to meet Mason at eye level. "Mason, Mommy needs to ask you something important," I said gently.

Mason's smile faltered slightly at the seriousness of my tone....