It's been five years since the sudden disappearance of Cora Cadigan's mother. Five years since the case was closed before it even began.
In the final summer before the end of high school, Cora knows it's her last opportunity to find the answers she...
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"Where's the aircon when you need it?"
I'm lying on my bed, watching the ceiling fan whirl around at full speed. My window was opened, the loud sounds of waves crashing against the shore soothing me.
The crickets were chirping loud tonight. They reminded me of mum. We used to try and catch them, trying to locate where the sound was coming from.
Although we'd never been successful, at least it was another memory of the summer nights I'd been able to spend with her.
"I can't catch them but I can catch you!'
I'd squeal, running as fast as I could towards the water before she'd catch me. But I was never fast enough. My little legs just couldn't be relied on yet.
She'd throw me over her shoulder, spinning around and around until we both collapsed back against the sand.
I smile despite myself. These memories were what helped me get through all this. Not knowing where she was, was easier to deal with when I knew that I could still picture her in my mind.
I'm suddenly brought out of my trance when I hear a car engine rumble outside. It sounded like it was coming from my driveway.
Dad had gone to bed hours ago so I knew it wasn't him. I reach for my phone, but I haven't got any new messages from my friends.
I frown, walking towards the front door. Once I wrench the door open, I peer out into the night.
It isn't fucking difficult to realise what is wrong with the picture I am currently seeing.
Rhys Laderman's car was parked in my driveway, the headlights still on. I hold up a hand to shield my eyes, closing the door behind me.
I fold my arms across my chest, already glaring at his car. I couldn't see him yet, but when I did, my glare would be solely focused on him for ruining my peaceful night.
He winds down the passenger window as I approach him. His nonchalance only angers me more.
"What the fuck?" I screech, leaning through the window.
