Dusk was closing in.

Down in the first-floor courtyard, the sound of a car drifted through the air.

The car rolled to a stop. Inside were the aunt and Serena. It was Serena’s first time meeting Jaden, and she came in confidently, bringing a small cake to share.

The door opened.

A tall, sharp-featured man stood outside the car, staring at her.

Serena guessed who he was.

Her little face froze for a second, and in ...