179

PRESENT.

They drove in silence for what felt like hours, the landscape changing from dense forest to open roads. Carlos stared out the window, lost in his thoughts. His uncle's words echoed in his head, providing little comfort but a glimmer of hope that they would soon understand what was happening.

Eventually, they pulled into a secluded driveway leading to a small, nondescript house. Their uncle parked the car and turned to face them. "Alright, we're here. Let's get inside quickly."

The boy helped Lily out of the car, holding her hand tightly as they followed their uncle into the house. Inside, it was modestly furnished but looked and felt safe and secure, whoever took their grandmother wouldn't find here, he was sure. Their uncle led them to the living room, where he gestured for them to sit down.

Carlos looked at his uncle, his eyes almost pleading. "Please, tell us what happened."

Their uncle sighed heavily, running a hand through his grey hair, he called a maid first and instru