Suzie sat in the silent corridor for a long time before finally heading down to the garage.
Because it was a specialized facility, there weren't many people around, making the parking lot feel deserted. Drafts of air swept through the exit into the concrete structure, carrying a distinct chill that felt almost like autumn.
She rubbed her arms instinctively and quickened her pace toward her car.
Just as she reached out to open the door, two men materialized from somewhere close behind her. She caught a glimpse of them out of the corner of her eye as they stepped right up to the vehicle...
The next morning.
The sky was just beginning to lighten.
Zelina and Wilna got up, washed their faces, and split their duties to start the busy day. Once all the kids were awake, dressed, and seated at the dining table, Zelina went over to knock on Suzie's bedroom door, but there was no response.
Frowning in confusion, she was spotted by Wilna, who hurried over.
"Ms. Sterling usually gets up at the same time as the kids," Zelina whispered, puzzled. "Why isn't she up yet? What time did she get home last night? Did you hear anything?"
Wilna shook her head. "Not a peep..."
Zelina knocked again, keeping it light so as not to alert the children, but the room remained dead silent. The two women exchanged a look, an uneasy feeling settling in their stomachs, and decided to just open the door.
The room looked exactly the same as when they had cleaned it yesterday. Had she not come home at all?
"Let's not tell the kids yet," Zelina said, worry lacing her tone. "We'll call the driver to take them to preschool first."

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update pls...