There was no contact name or photo. Just words: We need to meet. I must see her, the baby today. Time’s running out. Please. Ethan swallowed hard. “I don’t know this number. I’ve never seen it before.” His mind searched for family, friends, anyone who could end sentences that way. But his mind drew a blank.
“You’re sure?” the detective pressed. “Positive,” Ethan said. The officer made a note, not meeting his eyes. “Then we need to consider—maybe she left willingly, to meet this person.” The suggestion sliced clean through him. Willingly? Lina, hours after childbirth, limping down hospital corridors? It made no sense!