My parents forced me to stay home to feed the dog and water the plants while the whole family went on vacation. When I asked why, my sister said, “That’s your role in this house.”

beside the driveway. He was in his late thirties, calm-faced, with tired eyes that missed nothing.

“Emily Carter?” he asked.

I nodded.

“Thank you for coming. Your parents have been contacted?”

“I tried calling them,” I said. “They’re driving to the airport in Chicago. They haven’t answered since last night.”

Vanessa had answered once, only to hiss, “What continue reading …