Maya sat in the sitting room with Anika curled up on her lap, the little girl softly playing with the braid in Maya’s hair. For once, Maya felt settled, her heart slowing to a quiet rhythm after the whirlwind of emotions she had been through.

But peace never lasted long in this house.

When Mr. and Mrs. Denovan walked into the room, Maya noticed their faces right away. They were trying too hard to look composed. She gently lifted Anika from her lap and set her down on the sofa.

“Maya,” Mrs. Denovan said softly, “we need to speak with you.”

Maya’s stomach tightened. She stood slowly, her hands clasping...