114. Maddox

ONE HUNDRED FOURTEEN

I shove the shifter into park in front of Hannah's house. And I'm opening my car door before I've even turned off the engine.

She didn't answer my calls.

She hasn't messaged back.

I jog across the front lawn.

Hannah isn't done with me. I know that.

I know that.

But feeling shut out is terrifying.

"Hannah!" I shout her name at the house like a crazy person as I take the front steps in one bound.

I press the doorbell. "Hannah, open up."

My palms itch.

I pound my fist on the door, and as I do, I turn my head to the side.

My hand stills against the wooden door.

The driveway is empty.

Empty because Hannah isn't here.

I step back.

She isn't here.

In front of me, the door opens, and Chelsea appears.

"Jeez, chill, man." She's looking up at me like I've lost my mind.

And I feel like I have.

"Smidge." I try to keep my tone calm. "Where's your aunt?"

Ruth steps up behind her. "Sorry, she's gone."

I shake my head. "She can't be gone."

"Maddox —"

"I'm not letting her go."

Ruth reaches over Chelsea and smacks me lightly on the chest. "Hun, pay attention."

I blink.

Ruth smiles and lifts her hand. "She's right there."

Turning to follow her finger, I see Hannah's car turn into the driveway. And I bound down the steps.