Chloe Is Missing

Chapter 81

James woke up tentatively hopeful. Sunlight spilled into the room through the curtains, and for what felt like the first time in weeks, he wasn't packed with an awesome sense of foreboding. With the proof they had accumulated, he was quite certain Chloe and her gang could quickly find themselves behind bars. Maybe, simply perhaps, they might eventually position this entire mess at the back of them as soon as and for all.

He turned over to look at Lily already wide awake, scrolling on her smartphone.

"Morning," he mumbled, kissing her cheek.

"Morning," she husked, still sleepy. "Any news?"

James shook his head. "Not yet. But I'm expecting to hear something soon."

They got up and started their morning routine. As James poured his coffee, he heard the pitter-patter of little toes. Ava regarded within the kitchen doorway—her hair a large number, her favorite stuffed elephant tucked beneath her arm.

"Daddy!" she squealed, going toward him.

And James—grinning—scooped her up. "

"G