SIX

ELOISE

I got home late in the afternoon. That was after I had been spam called and texted a hundred times by my adoptive parents. I did send them a message urging them not to involve the police and promising that I would be back very soon to explain things. I had switched off my device for their sakes soon after. The bus dropped me a few blocks away from my house and as I highlighted the vehicle, I observed our house. There was no blaring siren or ominous black car. Not a crowd in sight too. That had to mean good news. Placated, I walked briskly to the door and shoved my spare key into the keyhole. It didn't budge of course. Not when another key was already in. I swore under my breath as I slowly but inevitably knocked the door. I heard mom's voice first.

"There is someone at the door!" She practically yelled. Her voice was apprehensive. A tell tale sign of the explanations I would have to provide soon enough. "Honey, go check."

I heard loud footsteps. It took only a moment. The ke