As I return to the room, I can’t wait to have her in my arms again. But then I open the door and she’s not there. My eyes scan the room as I step further inside, but I can’t find her. I walk further into the room, listening to the bathroom and closet.

Nothing.

The door to the closet is wide open and some of her things are missing. “Maya?”

I go to the bathroom, pushing open the door, and know that I won’t find her there. But I have to be sure. Sadly, my gut is right, and she’s ...