KELLY THOMPSON'S POV

The spirit reaches out, her fingers brushing against the plush toy. A soft light envelops it, and I watch in amazement as the toy glows brighter and brighter before finally dissolving into sparkles that drift into the air.

"Your sacrifice has been acknowledged," the spirit says, her voice echoing with power. "The allies you seek will be revealed when the time is right. Trust in the strength of your bond and the love you share."

With that, the spirit begins to fade, leaving ...