In the midst of their shared laughter, the patter of small feet heralded the arrival of their two daughters, their expressions etched with worry. “Where’s Mommy?” “Is she okay?!” “We heard her screaming!” one daughter cried out. Jack and his wife exchanged a knowing glance, their smiles a beacon of reassurance for the children. For an instant, it appeared as though the day would unfold with its usual, comforting rhythm.

Once the last morsels of breakfast had been savored, Jack knew it was time to venture outside and tend to his animals. With buckets of feed in hand, he strode towards the chicken coop.