I dash into the boys room, waking them as gently as I can in my frantic state. Archie comes with me, barking at my heels.
“Boys,” I say as they rub their eyes and groan. “Quickly – you’re safe, but I need you to move.”
They respond quickly, their faces grave as they pull themselves out of bed and slide their slippers onto their feet. Taking each by the hand, I pull them down the stairs, the dog following behind. Victor is already by the back door, looking out.
“Mama,” Alvin says, his voice trembling. “What’s wrong?”
“There’s a fire, baby,” I say, trying to peer beyond Victor at the flames, “up at the big house.”
Both boys gasp and I go to one knee in front of them, trying to will seriousness and confidence on my face to calm them. “Daddy and I are going to go up and see if we can hel
