Two officers entered the classroom, their presence commanding yet reassuring. Lucía explained the situation to them succinctly, emphasizing the urgency and delicacy of the matter. They nodded, understanding the gravity of what had transpired.

One of the officers crouched down to Mariana’s level, speaking softly. “Hi, Mariana. My name is Officer Diaz. We’re here to help you, okay? We’re going to make sure you’re safe.”

Mariana looked at Lucía, and the teacher nodded encouragingly. “It’s okay, Mariana. You can trust them.”

With Principal Carmen’s help, the officers facilitated a conversation with Mariana’s mother, who had been unaware of what was happening. The look of shock and heartbreak on her face when she arrived at the school was palpable.