They disappeared down the corridor, their heavy boots fading into the distance.

I stood alone in the security office for a second, looking at the flickering monitors.

The screen showing the children’s hallway was still active, but the light was dim.

I grabbed the journal, tucking it deep inside the inner pocket of my heavy coat, and slipped the walkie-talkie into my pocket.

As I stepped out into the cold, silent hallway, the generator hummed, a low vibration that vibrated through the soles of my shoes.

The air felt freezing now, the heating system seemingly struggling against the storm outside.

I walked quickly toward the west wing, my footsteps muffled by the thick Persian rugs.

Every shadow in the corridor seemed to stretch and twist as the wind outside rattled the heavy wooden shutters.

I reached the doorway to Sophie and Grace’s room, my heart pounding in my throat.

I pushed the door open slowly, trying not to make a sound.

The room was dark, save for the pale blue nightlight plugging into the wall near the window.