Leif drove me to the town center and pulled up right in front of a cell phone store. The street buzzed with life, lined with shops and boutiques. It reminded me of a high-end shopping district—only on a much smaller scale, less crowded, and far more inviting. As I stepped out of the car, I was immediately met with the warm smiles of passersby.

They all seemed so carefree, so at peace... too much so. I narrowed my eyes, scanning their almost too-perfect expressions, and couldn't help ...