Helen stood there for a moment in the stillness, feeling the edges of panic creep in. She turned back toward the street just as Mrs. Patel from across the road waved from her garden hose. “Morning, Helen!” Helen forced a smile. “Morning. Have you seen Lisa or the kids recently?” Mrs. Patel tilted her head, thinking.
“Oh, yes. Last weekend, I think. They left early Saturday morning with a lot of luggage. Said they were taking a trip. Sounded like they needed a break.” Helen’s throat tightened. “A trip?” Mrs. Patel nodded cheerfully. “That’s what they said. I figured you knew, they looked in a bit of a hurry.” Helen tried to smile, though her face felt wooden.