Vanishing

19.

Catherine

A Decade Earlier

I toss and turn beside Lindsey for an hour before I get up. I have this terrible feeling that Cynthia is behind what happened today. I cannot explain it. It is just something I know.

I slip my shoes on and unzip the tent as carefully as I can, looking behind me to make sure Lindsey does not stir.

She needs her rest.

When I get to Cynthias tent it is wide open. And empty.

I crawl inside and shine my phone around until I see her purse. I make quick work until I find what I am looking for. A box of morning after pills and its empty.

I stick it in my hoodie and stand up. Before I can move a blood curdling scream rips through the night making the blood rush from my body. Cynthia?

I do not move for several minutes. Paralyzed by fear.

When there is no threat, I go back to my tent and curl up under the blankets. Drifting off to sleep finally.

We are woken up at six o'clock by the chaperones. A girl is missing.

I glance at Lindsey who looks confused but otherwise okay. I know it was not her. It could not have been. I left her sleeping.

I shove the thought aside and follow her out into the chilly morning where everyone is standing outside their tent.

I do what everyone else seems to be doing and scan the students. My eyes land on Cynthias empty tent and my breath stops.

Even though I had an inkling, being proven right is a kick to the gut. My eyes find Brody and Fisher. Fisher meets my gaze and shrugs helplessly as Brody's world crashes down around him.

I wish I could say I feel just a little bad but then I remember what exactly is in my pocket and a white-hot rage bubble inside me.

I must tell Lindsey.