Emerald’s heart raced as she frantically scanned the playground, her eyes wide with panic. The cheerful laughter of other children felt like a cruel mockery of her fear. Ace had disappeared from her sight. Just moments ago, he was playing on the slide with his nanny, watching over him.

“Liam, we need to find him. We need to find Ace!” Her voice trembled, tears welling as she grabbed her friend’s arm. Liam nodded and placed a reassuring hand on her shoulder.

“We will, M. We’ll find him,” Liam replied, calm but firm. Once again, he scanned the area, his mind racing through possible scenarios.

Young Morgan's mind was a whirl...