"What do we do next," the message read.

Sophia leaned back in her seat, her fingers lightly tapping against the screen, her mind so wide. Whatever was unfolding, she was in no rush. She would wait until Jayson decided to do the right thing.

*****

Jayson stepped outside and his eyes began scanning the quiet street. He had hoped to find Marianne outside, but the stillness only deepened his unease. Something felt wrong. She had left not so long, he was supposed to see her here, but standing here, the emptiness around him made it harder to breathe. Where was she?

Before he could take another step, he almost bumped...