Smoke still hung in the air when the familiar black Denovan car pulled up beside the crowd. Mrs. Denovan was the first to step out, followed closely by Mr. Denovan and Colton. The moment Maya saw them, all the strength she had been holding onto finally gave way.

“Maya!” her mother cried, hurrying over. Maya rushed into her arms, tears spilling as Mrs. Denovan held her tightly. “Oh my goodness, I saw it on the news…are you hurt? What happened?”

Maya shook her head quickly, still catching her breath. “I’m fine, Mom. I swear, I’m fine. One of the students was trapped inside, but we got her out in time.”...