20: A Caught

Avery

I paced back and forth in my room, my eyes fixed on my phone. Where was Clara? I needed updates on Nathaniel's whereabouts. The silence was suffocating, and my mind conjured up worst-case scenarios. I know he is not the kind of person to suddenly show emotions, but I could see how worried he was the other time.

Just as I was about to give up hope, my phone rang.

"Clara!" I exclaimed, answering the call.

"Hey, Avery! I've got news," Clara said, her voice laced with excitement.

"What is it?" I asked, my heart racing.

"Nathaniel's grandma fell sick, and he was rushed to the hospital," Clara explained.

I exhaled a sigh of relief. "That's all?"

"No, there's more," Clara continued. "Your stepmother and sister visited Madam Hart too. I was shocked when my source told me about it, I don’t know when both families became that close.”

“Sasha and her mom must have a plan if they visit Madam Hart,” I said my curiosity piqued. "Do you know why?"

Clara hesitated. "No idea, but I have a bad f