The rest of the day was a blur for Rachel. She went through the motions of teaching, all the while replaying every interaction she’d had with Emily over the past weeks. Had there been signs she’d missed? Emily had always been such a bright, enthusiastic student. Had there been moments when she’d hidden her pain behind a brave face? Rachel resolved to be more vigilant, not only with Emily but with all her students.

In the days that followed, Rachel learned more about Emily’s situation through brief talks with the school counselor and news from the local community. Emily had been taken to the hospital, where doctors were assessing her injuries. The police were investigating, trying to piece together what had happened and who was responsible.