Book Two: Chapter 3

“I’m probably going back down there again later tonight,” Mike said, his voice low and thoughtful as he leaned back against the kitchen counter. He ran a hand through his hair, eyes unfocused, clearly already planning his next move. “Do you think Dana wants to come with me again?”

He wasn’t really looking at Beth when he asked the question, but he felt her attention sharpen immediately. The house had a way of doing that to people—every conversation felt heavier here, as if the walls themselves were listening.

Mike shook his head before Beth could even respond, as though answering his own question. “Not this time,” he added, more firmly now. “She left me a note.”

“A note?” Beth echoed, lifting her eyebrows. She shifted her weight, the strap of her backpack sliding slightly on her shoulder.

“Yeah.” Mike sighed and pushed himself