Chapter 27

• The first rays of dawn painted the sky as I finished putting Emily to sleep. Mr. Anderson, however, was still absent. The house, quiet and dimly lit, prompted me to head to the kitchen. Opening the refrigerator, I reached for a bottle of water, contemplating the events of the evening.
• Just as I stood there lost in my thoughts, a gentle tap on my shoulder startled me. Turning around, I found Mrs. Vilis, the neighbor, standing there with a warm smile.
• "Why are you still awake?" Mrs. Vilis inquired, concern etched on her face.