Crises in Love (Zora and Jaylan)
Chapter 522

Camilla cast a doubtful gaze my way, and I could tell she was puzzled. We'd agreed that the kids would help guide the police, but I hadn't said as much.

I couldn't explain at the moment, particularly since I wasn't sure if the two little rascals were fibbing.

Monique nodded, "Alright, we'll be back soon!"

After saying that, she glanced at the lavish spread on the dining table, seemingly lost in thought. But the next second, she sighed, grabbed Probert by the arm, and said to me, "We're off then, Mom. Don't worry, we'll be right back!"

As they left the dining room, I turned to Hannah, "Hannah, shadow them. See what they're really up to."

Hannah arched an eyebrow at me, as though sizing up my intentions. I added, "And don't let them spot you!"

"Got it!" Hannah replied and promptly headed out.

Mom finally turned to me and asked, "Weren't they supposed to stick with the cops to look for Fidelia? Why'd you let them go?"

"I've got a hunch those two are holding back the full story. They might know where Fidelia is!" I confided in my mom.

"What? Do you really think they know where Fidelia is?" Camilla perked up, pressing me for answers, "How do you know?" "It's just a guess," I quickly clarified.

"No wonder those two didn't seem concerned about Fidelia's whereabouts!" Camilla mumbled to herself.

I glanced at Camilla who had been paying attention to the kids' demeanor.

"Let's wait and see what Hannah reports when she gets back," I reassured everyone, hoping my suspicions were incorrect.

Truth be told, I wasn't confident and just had an instinct the kids were less than forthcoming. They couldn't possibly be indifferent to Fidelia's disappearance. Even Camilla had noticed their lack of inquiry about Fidelia.

It was out of character, especially for Monique. If something big went down, she'd be the first to spare no effort to get to the bottom of it. It didn't make sense for her to act that nonchalantly and claim to have tidied up some books with Probert.

That was unreasonable. Besides, Hannah was always on the ball. She mentioned checking out the Wood Manor and found nothing. If Hannah couldn't find Fidelia, could the kids' story hold any water? I was convinced there was more to the story.

"Logically, the two of them would know Fidelia best. If Fidelia decided to hide on her own, they'd likely know where," Camilla speculated.

"Exactly, they've been inseparable since day one. So just hang tight!" Mom took the opportunity to comfort Camilla.

Before I could piece together more thoughts, Ronan's call came through. He'd checked several leads without a trace. If Fidelia had been taken, there should've been some clue.

It dawned on me I hadn't shared the latest with Ronan. I briefed him on the situation, suggesting that Fidelia might have run off on her own, and we were searching.

After hearing me out, Ronan still urged caution, "Don't let your guard down, and stay safe!"

Once I ended the call, Camilla casually inquired, "Was that the police?"

I responded instantly, "My dad's pal!"

Camilla apologized, "I'm sorry for all the trouble. It's my fault for not well taking care of Fidelia."

"It's not a big deal, Camilla. This is a family matter. We need to put all our efforts into finding the kid," I added, "Don't worry. In Silverdale City, there's nothing my dad can't handle. Now that we know Fidelia took off on her own, it'll be easier to find her. We'll hear something soon."

Camilla nodded in agreement, "Thank goodness we're in Silverdale City. Otherwise, we'd be at a loss."

"Kids can be headstrong. Even when we find her, go easy on her. She's still a child and made friends here. The thought of leaving must be tough for Fidelia," Mom advised with patience, "She's adorable. Just talk it out with her."

"Yes, I know she's been happy here. She's become quite chatty over the past month," Camilla confided in my mom, but then hesitated, "But staying here for school..." She glanced at me and added with a rueful smile, "We can't impose on you indefinitely."

"Don't treat yourself as a stranger. No matter what happens with Allie's marriage, it doesn't change the bond between you sisters. It has nothing to do with the Dawson family. The kids are blood-related," I assured her.

"You folks are truly wonderful," Camilla said sincerely.

And just then, Helga let out an exclamation that startled us all, "Oh my..."