The incoming text chimed just as my mind finally stopped beating itself up enough to let me drift to sleep.
I’d told Madi to reach out if she needed help, so I squashed my impulse to ignore it.
Jamie: SOS Madi’s missing!
I was out of my bed and pulling my pants on when his next text came through.
Robinson Blaszek she went to Star Grocery go look for her.
I'd strapped on my pistol and was grabbing my keys from the hook near my front door when the next text hit.
I need everyone else here now.
“Call Nathan.” I ordered my phone as I ran to my SUV. My gear was in the back, so no matter what happened, I was ready.
Nathan answered, “I’m on my way.”
“Meet you there.”
The call disconnected.
My mind picked up the bat I’d been using to beat myself once more.
I should have stayed.
Madi didn’t want you to.
I should’ve slept in my truck.
John told you not to.
I should’ve asked if they needed anything before I left.
Half her family was there.
I had a counter for every thought, but none of it mattered. Madi was in trouble, and I had to act.
I should have stayed, played on repeat in my mind.
Madi hadn’t wanted me on the couch, but I knew they’d need help. I didn’t want to go, but I couldn’t ignore her wishes.I should’ve parked outside.Then this wouldn’t have happened.
“That won’t help anyone,” I said to the dash as I turned the key.
A new chorus played in my mind.
What the fuck was she thinking, going to the store alone? Why did Jamie let her go?
The answers to those questions didn’t matter. Jamie had a lot on his plate; if Madi went to the store in the middle of the night, there was a good reason.
I hadn’t made many vows in my life, but I made one now.
“I will find you, Madi. I swear on my life, I will find you.”
I punched the gas and pushed the boundaries of the law as I raced to the store.
Madi’s purple jeep was easy to spot. Near the driver’s side was a cart full of water.
After scanning for threats, I jumped out of my SUV and approached O.P. with my hand on my pistol.
