Talia Roberts waited fifteen minutes after the door shut before hauling out her empty suitcase and throwing it open. She scooped up armfuls of shirts, pants, and underwear and flung them into the bag, packing them in as tightly as possible. At least Sam’s clothes were smaller. His belongings filled her duffel, with just enough room to spare for Mr. Snuggles, the teddy bear he never traveled without. Taking one last look around the house, she surveyed the items left behind. Framed family photos, her collection of colorful indoor flowers she spent years raising, and of course, her wedding ring.

            Setting the suitcases by the door, Talia ran upstairs to collect her son. He looked so peaceful asleep. A pang of guilt ran through her, but she had to do it. She brushed her hand against his frizzy black hair, and he opened his eyes.“We’re going to take a little trip tonight, just you and I,” Talia said.

            Sam blinked. “Where are we going?”

            “Far away,” she answered. Marcus’ tactical conference would last the whole week.  More than enough time to disappear across the country.

            Sam’s weight on her forearm awakened dull pain from the bruise that had just begun to fade, but she pushed through it. She made it almost halfway down the stairs when her heart stopped. The sound of a key turning in the front door lock.