Brenda’s breath hitched as the hooded figure slowly pulled back their hood. She had expected a man, perhaps older and threatening, but standing before her was a girl—barely out of her teens. The young woman’s face was pale, her wide eyes filled with fear and vulnerability.
For a moment, Brenda’s anger ebbed, replaced by confusion and a maternal instinct to protect. She steadied herself, glancing between Stacey and the girl. “Alright,” Brenda said, her voice firm but measured. “We’re going to sit down, and you’re going to tell me everything. No more secrets.”