Sympathy poured in from the neighborhood, but Robert wasn’t sure how to process it. Some neighbors praised his kindness, while others warned him that trust could be dangerous. Their words blurred together, offering little comfort as Robert wrestled with the sting of betrayal.
A couple of days later, the police called with an update. “We’ve located your vehicle sir,” the officer reported. Relief mixed with apprehension as Robert listened. “Where is it?” he asked. “Abandoned on the outskirts of town,” the officer replied. “No sign of Natalie or the children.”