Amber was never the type to run away. I know all parents say that, but it’s true. We shared a deep bond, and she was a bright, responsible child who made me proud every day. The thought of her vanishing without a word was unbearable. As days passed with no sign of her, my fear consumed me. Something terrible had happened—I was certain of it.
The Sack
The police assured me they were doing their best, but their hollow words and pitying glances only deepened my despair. I felt utterly lost.
Then, one night, I saw a homeless woman rummaging through a dumpster. My heart froze. Slung over her shoulder was Amber’s backpack—the unicorn patch unmistakable.
I ran to her, pleading for answers. She hesitated but handed it over. My relief vanished when I opened it—it was empty.
Fear had pushed me to my limits, but love and determination led me to Amber. We had survived, stronger than ever.
