The rest of the day felt like living in a tomb. The whole house stood dark and quiet as each of the kids struggled with the despair of losing their hope yet again. Fresco put Apple to bed, sitting with her until she fell asleep, keeping his mind tuned to her to make sure she was all right. Then, he went hunting for Parker.

He found her with Chad and Martin in the kitchen. Despite his best attempts, none of them seemed interested in talking. Finally, frustrated by their sullen ...