Abigail’s car screeched to a halt in front of the familiar little house as gravel scattered under the tires. The driver barely cut the engine before she opened the door and threw herself out, leaping into the storm. Rain pelted her skin like needles, instantly soaking her thin clothes. She fumbled with the umbrella but gave up halfway, her trembling hands refusing to cooperate.
She sprinted up the short pathway, mud splashing against her calves, and began pounding on the front door.
“Mom! Dad! Open up!” she cried, her voice breaking. “Please, open the door!”
The porch light flicked on, and the door creaked open just enough for Mrs. Curtis’s startled face to appear.
“Abi? What on earth—”
“Where is he?” Abigail gasped, breathless, clutching the doorframe as if it were the only thing kee
