Five years later*

A tiny figure appeared at the top of the stairs, her ponytails bouncing with each step as she descended into the kitchen. Nadine, a miniature version of Maya, her bright eyes welling up with tears, her school uniform a stark contrast to the turmoil on her face.

"Mommy!" she wailed, her small voice trembling.

Hazel, apron-clad and flour-dusted, hurried to her daughter's side, concern etched on her face.

"What's wrong, sweetie?" she asked, as Nadine flung herself into her ...