Michael
I follow Jack up the stairway. As we rise above basement level, my phone rings; Richard.
“Michael, I’ve been trying to call you.”
“Sorry, I was below ground. Have you spoken to Charlotte?”
“No, I still can’t get an answer from her. But I’ve spoken with James.”
“When? Is he okay?”
“About five minutes ago. And yes, he seems alright, insofar as you can ever tell with James. Klempner’s got him so I’d hate to guess at his state of mind. And I could hear a car engine in the background. Where are you?”
“Francesca’s. Kirstie’s car is here and a security guard is helping me search, but so far I can’t find anything.”
“I’ll keep trying to contact them. I’ve got Ross out searching too, circling the streets. Keep in touch.”
“Will do.”
*****
The tea-room feels strange; dark, empty of
