After Hayden left, I reached into my pocket and pulled out a small stone engraved with "Peace and Joy." A young boy had given it to me during my time in Africa.
Back then, he had lost his parents and was all alone. With small, dark hands, he offered me the stone and said, "Sister, this is for you. Give it to someone you love to keep them safe."
I took it, planning to get some candy for him. But just as I turned, he was shot, collapsing right in front of me. Devastated, I tried to save him, but my colleagues pulled me away.
Regaining composure, I opened the guest room door and scanned the house. Previously, I was too distracted to notice much.
Now, I spotted signs of another woman living here. The bathroom had feminine towels and skincare products. On the coffee table, fresh flowers, a coffee mug, and children's toys were scattered.
Absorbing these details, I walked to the master bedroom. I used to live here, and Hayden had designed it just for me. As I touched the doorknob, a voice interrupted me.
"Are you Nora Stewart?"
