Chapter 56

Alice felt like she hadn't slept at all when she woke up the morning after Margaret's surprise visit. She had been having scary dreams with dark images and sounds. She had a strong sense that someone was watching her as she got Charlie ready for daycare.

Little Charlie heard her say, "It's okay, baby," as she put him in his car seat. "Mommy's just being silly."

But Alice couldn't help but look in her rearview mirror more often than normal on her way to daycare. Was that the same black car that had been following her since she left the house?

While Charlie was at daycare, Alice gave him a tighter hug than normal before giving him to Miss Laura.

"Is everything okay, Alice?" When Miss Laura saw that Alice looked worried, she asked.

A smile was forced on Alice. "Everything is okay. Just... please call me first if someone else comes to pick up Charlie, even if they say they know me. "All right?"

Miss Laura nodded and looked worried but sure she got it. "Of course, Alice. Before giving kids