Page 34 of The House Swap

Knowing she had to do something, but unsure what, she picked up her phone again and after checking – again – that Keira hadn’t received her message, she scrolled to another name.

Jem.

It was unlikely he would be able to help, but still it was worth asking.

I don’t suppose you’ve seen Keira this morning?

She stared at the words for a second before pressing send.

Jem’s reply came a few minutes later.

No, I haven’t. Everything OK?

Poppy hesitated.

I honestly don’t know. I went out earlier when she was still asleep, but now I’m back and she’s nowhere to be found.

Maybe she went out for a walk.

Which is what Poppy kept telling herself. The problem was, the more time that passed, the less she believed it.

All of her stuff has gone. Her clothes, her suitcase.

Poppy wanted to type more, to share her concerns, but she didn’t want Jem to think she was overreacting.

You’re sure?

Of course I’m sure!

Dots appeared, bouncing as Jem typed. Then they paused briefly before appearing again.

His reply popped up.

Are you saying she might have gone home?

No, she wasn’t saying that. But was it wishful thinking? Trying to convince herself. Because the absence of Keira’s things did point to that being the most rational explanation.

I don’t know what to think. She’s not answering my calls or messages.

Poppy fought against the tiny bubble of hysteria that had lodged itself in her throat.

Is there any reason why she would have left without saying where she was going? Did you have a fight or anything?

No!

Her abrupt response had perhaps shocked him, because although the blue ticks appeared instantly, no reply was forthcoming.

Poppy waited a couple of minutes, nausea stirring in her gut. It wasn’t his fault that Keira had vanished. She shouldn’t be taking it out on him.

Guiltily, she started to type an apology.

Before she could press send, though, another message from Jem came through.

Do you want me to check if Sue and Ian have seen her?

She hesitated, only for a second.

Yes, please. And thank you.