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“My client’s daughter is missing.”

“And? What does that have to do with me signing that piece of paper.”

“The last ping on her cell phone happened right near here.”

“You’re certain it was this Benton and not Benton on the other side of the state?”

“Yes. It was here. A tiny map dot near Ricketts Glen State Park.”

“That’s the real reason you were coming up here.”

He sighed. “That and because of the symbol. There is a connection between that symbol and my case. Since it’s connected to your uncle’s disappearance as well, I thought we could help each other. But you know the situation. I can’t give you the details of the case if you won’t agree to work for me. At least on paper.”

“I get that, but I can probably find out the details by checking into the missing persons database and going through official channels at work.”

“She hasn’t been officially reported missing. The press that would bring her family is too great. I’m trying to find her without the need to alert the authorities. Her dad is convinced she’s doing what young adults often do. That’s she’s out carousing and carrying on and showing complete lack of regard for the classes she is missing in the meantime.”

“But you think something terrible has happened?”

“I don’t know what to think, but the connection is undeniable. God brought your uncle’s case to my attention just last week. Now we find this same symbol in both cases. There has to be more to this.”

“Maybe.”

“Coincidences are God's breadcrumbs. He's leading us somewhere, but it's up to us to follow the trail.”

“If you say so.”

“Will you sign?”

“I’ll sign, but if it turns out your client’s kid is involved in illegal or illicit activities up here, you need to waive any conflict of interest. I’m arresting her regardless of whether or not I work for you.”

AsSamanthawaspreparingfor bed, her cell chirped. Glancing at the screen, she saw Gavin’s face in the little circle. It was too small too see the cute little indent in his chin, but she could picture it nonetheless.

Gavin: You up?

Sam: Do you always text people this late if you’re not sure.

Gavin: Used to working with bodyguards. They work unusual hours.

Sam: Miss me already?

Gavin: What’s it been an hour?

Sam: Not even. What’s up?

Gavin: Found something interesting. Can I call?

Sam: Call my house. I don’t get great reception on my cell.

Before she could make it downstairs to grab the cordless phone from her bedroom that she’d left on the kitchen table, her house phone rang. “I didn’t give you my number yet.”

“I’m a resourceful guy.”

“You got it from Wade when you got my cell number.”

“Close. Got it from Emily last year.”

“Yet you never used it until now.”