Approaching Storm

School counselor Ruth Hammond isn't thrilled to be assigned two days a week at little Parker Elementary, but she can understand why. Almost two years ago, when classes resumed following the Christmas break, popular grade two teacher Kelly Walters failed to show. Only days later, Kelly's body was found— the young teacher had been murdered. Police still have no suspects— and no motive.

Ruth's job as a counselor is to deal with the lingering effects of this tragedy on students and staff. Some students actively seek her help, but Ruth struggles to establish a relationship with little Belle Lapointe, a "watcher" whose secrets might include the death of Kelly— and a lot more.

One evening, Ruth finds Belle hiding in the school and is exposed to a story of shocking abuse. When police and child care agencies seem unable to protect Belle, Ruth decides to take matters into her own hands. She and Belle go on the run— both from Belle's stepfather and from the authorities. Soon they find themselves driving into a storm in more ways than one, as Ruth searches for proof of child abuse and murder at the risk of both their lives.