Clashing Cliques

Nick's POV

I got the local newspaper and the title of the big story was 'Teen Boy Gone Missing' in all caps. I normally wouldn't think anything of it, except that I saw that it was a picture of Jessica's ex, Henry. I mean, I didn't necessarily like him for breaking my little sister's heart but he's just a kid. A stupid teenage kid.

This just means I need to keep a more watchful eye on Jess. Maybe this is why she's been acting weird. Does she know anything about this? Is she connected to this? God, I hope not. So many scenarios are running through my head. Maybe I should head home for a couple of days. The whole town is in despair.

I mean, star football player missing? That leaves a mark on a town like ours. We're a football town after all. Not that I mind it. I, too, enjoy throwing a ball around.

If it was Lauren, no one would care. Well, except for all of us who know her. It's how it is here. It's how it always is. Who knows if more kids have gone missing?

I've made up my mind. I'm going home for Jess and Lauren. I called Jess, but she isn't answering.

Don't freak out. Don't freak out. Don't freak out.

Saying it is easier than doing it. I call Joe, hoping he's with them at the diner for their usual Wednesday night dinners. He picks up the phone, startled.

"What do you want?" He says instantly, as if he's expecting something bad.

"Are you with the girls? I'm a little freaked out, man."

"Why? What do you know?"

"Considering that you're at home, where is my sister? Her douchebag ex is missing, I'm worried she might be next."

"Woah. Calm down, man. I'm sure her and Lauren are completely fine." He says, in a panicked tone.

"What if they're not? They could be in danger, Joe."

"I'm sure she's not in danger. I'm sure she's fine, Nick."

"Then where is she? If you're there, then where is my sister?"

"She's fine, Nick. She's next door at my house with Lauren."

"Okay, why couldn't you have just said that?" He goes silent. "Joe?" The line cuts out.