Aurora’s POV
At exactly half past three in the afternoon, I checked the apartment locks three times.
I had left a pot of hot potato soup on the counter for Leo, along with clean water and two thick books.
“Remember, Leo,” I said, kneeling in front of him and holding his small shoulders. “Do not open this door for anyone. Not even if someone says they are police or the landlord. Only open it when you hear my three knocks.”
Leo nodded seriously. He looked up at me with his calm brown eyes. “Three slow knocks, Mommy. I know. Don't worry about me. Take care of Maya.”
Maya was already bouncing by the door in her old shoes, clutching her worn-out pink rabbit doll with both hands. Her face was glowing with pure excitement.
I kissed Leo’s cheek, stepped into the hallway with Maya, and listen
