When I finally got back to my apartment, it was nearly eleven in the morning. I was shocked I hadn't heard from Miss Pearl or the kids. I ran inside to quickly shower and change clothes before I went next door to get them. Needing to hurry, I didn't dry my hair. Jeans and a T-shirt were as formal as it would get today. I wasn't going to work, there were no doctor appointments, and all I wanted was to get my kids and hang out. The park, the apartment, I didn't care as long as I could see them smile. I prayed Emmy was feeling well enough to go outside and soak up some of the gorgeous weather and cooler temperatures.
Trace opened the door, and I knew there was something wrong. Derrick was crying, Megan was holding an unhappy Emmy, and Miss Pearl was nowhere to be seen. He grabbed my hand, a
