Maya emerged from her room, her backpack slung over her shoulder and her hair tied up in a ponytail, ready to tackle another day at school.

As she walked down the hallway, she collided with Hazel, who was hurrying in the opposite direction.

"Hey, I was coming to meet you," Hazel said, her voice low and urgent. "I won't be staying for breakfast, I have to run."

Maya's curiosity was piqued. "Why the rush? You're going somewhere," she asked, her eyes narrowing slightly as she studied Hazel's frazzled expression.

Hazel hesitated, her eyes darting around the hallway before focusing on Maya.

"Yes, I have a meeting with my manager at...