How would I know where she went? Better yet,whowould know where she went?
Gina.
My fingers trembled as I dialed the Nashville police station. I asked for Officer Barkley’s direct line. Said it was a family emergency. The operator patched me over.
Jack’s voice was curt and rushed. “Officer Barkley.”
“Jack, this is Patrick Moore.”
The line was quiet a moment. “Why are you calling me at work?”
“It’s about Jules. Something has happened—or well, I’m afraid something might happen.”
I had his ear now. “What’s wrong?”
I explained the kayak situation. How I saw her leaving. “I’m only going on a hunch here. But I figured if you could help me get Gina’s number, I could talk to her about it. Maybe she will know where Jules is going.”
When the line was quiet again, I felt myself back-peddling. “I probably sound crazy—”
“No,” Jack finally said. “We need to see what she’s up to. She’s been acting like she’s on the verge of a breakdown or something. I’ve been trying to get through to her, but our relationship is kind of on the fritz again right now.” He sighed. “When she’s in a bad place, she does stuff that isn’t safe. I’m not sure why.”
Relief washed over me. I wasn’t crazy.
“I agree Gina is the best place to start. I don’t have her number, but I do have Blake’s. What’s your number? I’ll forward his contact.”
I gave him mine, and the text came. “I got it. Thanks.”
“No problem. Can you text me what she says? I’m worried now. I’d try to help you, but I’m stuck at work for the foreseeable future; we had a situation.”
“For sure. I’ll keep you updated.”
“And Moore?”
“Yeah.”
“I’m sorry for what happened at Julia’s apartment. I was way out of line.”
“No big deal, Jack.”
“Thanks for looking out for her.”
I dialed Blake as soon as he disconnected.
“Hello?”
“Hey, Blake, we’ve never met, but this is Patrick. I’m Julia’s—uhm, her ex.”
“Oh, Patrick! Golly, I’ve heard a lot about you.”
I wasn’t sure if that was a good thing or not. Someone shrieked. There was muffled talking, and the phone scuffled like someone dropped it.
A woman’s voice came on the line. “This is Julia’s Patrick?”
“Ah, yes.”
“This is Gina.”
“Hi—”
