Chapter 4: The Call That Changed Everything
The evening was calm at the Harold’s’ residence. Mr. Harold sat comfortably on the couch, watching his favorite show on television. Denise paced restlessly around the living room, while Jane sat at the dining table, engrossed in learning a new recipe from her cookbook. The peaceful atmosphere was abruptly interrupted by the sharp ringing of the phone. Jane, with her usual warm and welcoming tone, answered. “Hello, Harold’s residence. How may I help you?” The voice on the other end was familiar, yet carried a hint of concern. “Hello, Mrs. Harold. This is Principal Peterson from Dartmond High School.” Jane’s expression shifted. She glanced at her husband, puzzled as to why the principal would be calling. “Oh—hello, Principal Peterson,” she said quickly. “We’ve noticed Sam has been absent from school for quite some time,” the principal said, his tone laced with a mix of worry and suspicion. “We wanted to know if there’s a particular reason for that.” Mr. Harold immediately muted the telev...