“We are simply trying to learn as much as we can about your husband’s disappearance. You must realize that the circumstances are very unusual. We’ve searched the Mendocino hotel and scoured the headland trails down to the beach.” The detective pauses. “In fact, Mrs. Douglas, no one’s reported seeing your husband since you both left the Heritage yesterday morning.”

“Hey.” I try my best to keep my voice steady. One hand curls around the joystick of my power wheelchair as the other hand rests on my lap. Normally, I would clasp my hands together, but they’re shaking so hard I want to keep them apart.

“More likely they’ll get the big city pastors to come down here and scold me,” Johnny said. “Pastor Simmons is already coming around for breakfast most days to chew me out. Although I think maybe he’s doing it a little bit for God’s eggs, too.”

Shaking his head, Edmond turns to face the marina again and takes his first bite of the croissant. Flakes melt on his tongue and the buttery aroma float up the roof of his mouth but instead of the familiar solace, unease blooms in his gut.

“There’s only one thing left to do,” I announce to nobody, and trudge on into the kitchen toward the cabinet under the sink. That’s where I keep all the chemicals they say we should never use but can’t clean our toilet bowls without.

Andy gambled. He did so in a serious way, contributing greatly to the casino’s coffers. Tickets and chips colored his path through and around the floor. Dave and Peter were impressed by his haphazardness and lack of concern for his own money. Realistically, Andy was trying to change a conversation he was having with himself.