“Sweetie, you’re not supposed to wander off from the rest of the group,” a voice chided. Someone took a hold of Selina’s hand. She looked up. It was a young woman in a uniform worn by the people who worked at the mall daycare. There was a large indoor play area outside buybuy Baby, so the daycare must have taken a short field trip there. Selina opened her mouth to say she didn’t go to the daycare, only to reconsider.
The daycare was at the other end of the mall, by the alternate entrance. It should be easy enough to sneak out of the mall, and security probably wouldn’t be looking for her there, since it was so far. Not to mention, she couldn’t just keep wandering around without an adult.
“Sorry,” Selina said, feigning sheepishness. The worker smiled at her.
“It’s okay. I’m just glad I found you when I did. We’re about to head back.” The worker led Selina over to a group of children ranging from only a few years older than her to infancy. As they walked, Selina spotted Mall Security talking to Hospital Security. That was a closer call than she felt comfortable with.
The children were led through the mall, back to the daycare. As she was being ushered inside, Selina caught sight of the young man sitting at the receptionist. Her eyes widened. It was her lucky day! She knew him! His name was Derek, and surely, she’d be able to convince him to help her.
After all, Derek was…