The Eighth Case (6)

As I approach Happy Days Daycare Center, Manson's words echo in my mind: "Look for someone who's part of the community. Someone above suspicion." The cheerful exterior of the building, with its brightly painted walls and cartoon characters, seems at odds with the dark thoughts swirling in my head.

The sound of children's laughter drifts from the yard, a stark reminder of what's at stake in this investigation. As I near the entrance, I can see small figures running and playing, their joy a sharp contrast to the grim reality we're facing.

A guard steps forward as I reach the gate, his posture alert but not overtly hostile. He's middle-aged, with a neatly trimmed salt-and-pepper beard.

"Can I help you?" he asks, eyeing me carefully.

I pull out my badge, holding it up for him to see. "I'm a from the police. I'm investigating the recent cases in the village and would like to take a look inside if possible."