Ellis listened to the noises coming from downstairs, and a chill ran down her spine. She quickly turned to Jake, who was still playing on the floor of his room.

“Jake,” she said urgently, “I need you to wait here for a moment, okay? No matter what happens, do not leave this room.”

The boy's eyes widened in fear as he saw the seriousness on Ellis's face. “Mrs. Smith, what's happening?”

Ellis crouched down, getting to Jake's eye level, and held his hands. ...