The afternoon sun stretched lazily across the gates of the school as the Denovan family driver, Mr. Cole, pulled up in the familiar black SUV. He checked the time on the dashboard 3:05 p.m. right on schedule. He always arrived early. Maya trusted him with her whole heart, and said he was the only person allowed to pick up the children besides Maya herself.

Mr. Cole stepped out of the car, adjusting his suit jacket before walking toward the security gate. The school was closing for the day, parents gathering, children rushing out in excited chatter, teachers waving goodbye. Everything looked normal.

But something felt… off.

The security guard at...