()27 years ago an entire class vanished, until a desperate mother noticed a crucial detail…

It’s just—I still can’t believe my daughter just disappeared into thin air.’ To her surprise Laura felt tears welling up in her eyes. «‘I hoped—I don’t know what I hoped—that maybe you’d have an answer after all this time.’ Laura reached into her purse and pulled out a pocket-tissue, dabbing at her eyes. As her vision cleared she noticed the younger woman inside watching them intently.

There was a mix of curiosity and concern in her gaze—and Laura. Principal Brooke’s expression softened further. «‘I understand the pain, Mrs. Calloway.

It’s one of the reasons I took early retirement. As long as I worked at that school I could never overcome the grief.’ She hesitated for a moment, then stepped forward and embraced Laura briefly. «‘I know that today marks twenty-seven years.

You’re not the first parent to come here on this day over the years.’ Laura was taken aback by the sudden show of emotion from the Principal. She put the photo back into her purse. As they parted she managed a weak smile.

«‘Thank you for your time. I should go now. I’m sorry for taking up your afternoon.’ As Laura turned to leave she couldn’t shake the feeling that there was more to the story.

The Principal’s initial hesitation, the presence of the mysterious younger woman, and the subtle inconsistencies in her answers all gnawed at her mind. Yet she also knew that her suspicions might just be her overthinking everything. Helen was right.

She couldn’t afford to lose herself in false hope again and— Walking back towards the bus stop, Laura’s mind raced with conflicting thoughts and emotions. The rain that had been threatening all day finally began to fall, matching her sombre mood. As she reached the shelter of the bus stop, she pulled out her phone and stared at it, wondering if she should try to contact the police officer who had been assigned to the case once again.

But before Laura could make up her mind, the bus arrived. She stepped on board and settled into a seat by the window. As the bus pulled away from the kerb, she clutched the photo tightly to her chest.

The rain continued to pour, a steady rhythm against the pavement outside, though at least the wind had settled. Laura sat on the bus, her mind whirling with thoughts and questions. The encounter with Principal Brooks had left her with more doubts than answers, and she couldn’t shake the feeling that something wasn’t right.

As the bus made its way through the rain-slicked streets, with a sigh she pulled out her phone, hoping for a notification, a missed call, anything. But the screen remained blank. No reply from the police officer.

Laura’s stop came into view and she disembarked, stepping out into the light drizzle. The florist’s shop was just down the street, its colourful display of flowers a stark contrast to the grey day. As she approached, Laura paused under the awning of a nearby shop, hoping the rain would let up.

There in the wait she hesitated, debating whether to call again. Would it make a difference? After her conversation with the Principal, she doubted she’d get anything new. The officer would probably just echo what she had already heard.

With a quiet sigh she slipped the phone back into her bag. Maybe Helen was right, maybe she was just reopening old wounds for nothing. But no matter how much she tried to push it aside, the image of the young woman in Principal Brook’s house and the Principal’s nervous behaviour kept nagging at her.

Something about it didn’t sit right. Deciding she had waited long enough, Laura took a deep breath and made a run for the florist’s shop, holding her purse over her head as a makeshift umbrella. The cold rain clung to her skin, seeping through the fabric of her clothes, but she barely noticed.

She just had to cross the street. Getting a little wet wouldn’t matter. Reaching the shop she pushed the door open, and the soft chime of the bell overhead announced her arrival.

The shift from the chilly rain to the warm, fragrant air inside was immediate. The scent of fresh flowers enveloped her, a soothing blend of roses. Mrs. Calloway, the florist said, recognising her.

I was wondering if we’d see you today. Laura managed a small smile in return. Hello, Sarah.

Yes, I’m here for my usual order. As Sarah began to gather the flowers Laura typically chose for Rory’s grave, Laura found herself scanning the shop’s selection. The variety seemed less extensive than in previous years, and she couldn’t help but feel a twinge of disappointment.

Noticing Laura’s expression, Sarah explained apologetically. I’m sorry we don’t have as much variety this year. The weather’s been unpredictable and it’s affected our suppliers.

Laura nodded in understanding. It’s all right, Sarah. I’m sure we can still put together something beautiful for Rory.

As Sarah continued to gather flowers, the bell above the door chimed again. Laura turned to see Helen and her husband, Matthew, entering the shop. Their eyes met, and for a moment Laura saw surprise and then concern flash across Helen’s face.

Laura, Helen said, approaching her friend. I thought you’d have gone to the florist earlier. Is everything all right? Laura hesitated, unsure how much to share about her impromptu visit to Principal Brooke’s house…