The call arrived at 2:47 a.m., jolting Grace from her restless sleep on Elena's couch. Max's name on her phone screen made her heart race…….they had agreed to keep the radio quiet at night unless there was an emergency.
"Derek's gone," Max announced without hesitation.
"What do you mean gone?"
"Santos called." Six hours ago, surveillance missed him. He is not at his motel or any of his known destinations. "It's as if he has disappeared."
Grace sat awake, adrenaline coursing through her system. "That does not make sense." "He's been so visible and predictable……."
"That is what Santos said." Derek's entire pattern changed overnight.
Elena emerged in the hallway, roused by Grace's words. "What's happening?"
"Derek disappeared," Grace stated hurriedly, before returning to Max. "Where ar
