She stepped outside into the cool mist, hoping for another wave of support. But only two people had returned—familiar faces, quietly waiting near the porch. One of them had a pet carrier while the other one held onto a leash, their eyes tired but kind. The surge of volunteers from earlier had dwindled. Hope had clearly worn thin.
For a brief second, doubt crept in. Maybe they were right. Maybe he was gone. But Samantha swallowed the fear building in her throat and straightened her spine. She hadn’t come this far to walk away. Pablo had given her light when she needed it. Now, she would return the favor.
She needed more than determination—she needed direction. Pulling out her phone, she scrolled past messages and names until one caught her eye, her close friend that lived a couple towns over. She didn’t know whether he’d even have the time to show up, but it was worth a try. She needed as much help as she could gather.
Hesitating for just a second, she typed: “Alex, I know this is a lot to ask. But I need your help. Pablo’s missing—we’re searching the woods. If you can come…” She hit send. The message felt like a plea, but it also felt like her last good card to play.