As daylight broke, Scarlett dressed and gathered everything she would need for the journey ahead. Though she had anticipated receiving the SMS from Alfred in a matter of minutes, it took several hours. She was unable to sleep, though, not with her sons in the care of strangers who would hurt them if given the chance. She did not go to sleep until she got the text.

Sheila stopped her as she stood up to leave, telling her it was too late. Her friend persuaded her that before she could ...