**Crescent Academy – 7:58 a.m.**
“New shoes?" Serena crouched beside Willow, adjusting her daughter's uniform collar.
Willow nodded. “I wanted to look smart for my first day."
“You already are." Serena pressed a kiss to her temple. “Remember the emergency codes?"
“Red apple, yellow sun, green leaf," Willow recited.
“Perfect." Serena smiled. “I'll be right outside at pickup."
**Across the Street – Black SUV, Tinted Windows**
A camera lens extended from a crack in the window.
“Target acquired," said the man in the front seat. “Get the facial scan and verify match."
**8:00 a.m. – Drop-Off Complete**
Serena returned to her car. The driver shifted into gear.
“Something wrong, Ms. Shi?"
She frowned. “The SUV across the street. Two men. Didn't move once."
“Should I call security?"
“
