Chapter 139

December 22

Avri woke to a pounding on the front door. She struggled to get the twisted and tangled blanket off and hurried to the door. A tall shadow stood outside. Her heart jumped into her throat as she reached for the doorknob. She opened the door, and her heart dropped. Mitch stood in front of her, dark circles under his eyes; he twirled his hat in his hands.

"Can I come in?" He asked.

"Of course," Avri said as she opened the door wider and looked behind him, hoping to see Drew or Dillon. She'd take either one right now.

"You haven't found him, have you?" Avri asked while Mitch settled on the couch. Avri sat on the edge of the recliner.

"No, we haven't but we also haven't given up. The dogs lost his trail but are still out there. So many people have come from all over to help," his radio cackled indecipherable code numbers, "with the search. Let me step outside and make a call. I'll be right back."

Avri looked out the front window, saw Mitch talking on his cell. She wante