The families waited: Ryan’s parents from Charlotte, and Claire’s from Raleigh. Dellray sat across from them and said he had found nothing new. Claire’s mother, Patricia Hartwell, watched his face with focused attention as though reading what was said versus what was meant.
The investigation was thorough. The rental Cherokee was examined and returned within forty-eight hours. Financial records showed no debts or unusual withdrawals. Meridian Systems responded to Ryan’s employment record within two days: excellent employee, recently resigned, no issues, deeply mourned.