Page 82 of Hidden Depths

Margaret’s lips puckered into a frown. “It’s only a block away.”

“That’s a block where we’re out in the open. Can’t we cut through someone’s yard?”

“I guess, but that would draw attention. The neighbors would definitely notice. Wouldn’t it be better to act natural?”

“You’re right. Okay.”

“Father God,” Margaret said as they headed for the door.

“What?”

“Nothing. I’m praying. Father God, you know the trouble Sara’s in and the fear she feels. We thank you that you have the answers. We thank you that you know what to do next, and we ask that you give Sara your wisdom to know what to do. Give her clarity in this time, and protect her. Amen.”

“Thank you,” Sara said as she checked the street. “But let’s still hurry.”

When they turned the corner at the end of the block, Sara noticed a black Mercedes parked on the side of the road.

“Do you know that car?” she said.

“It belongs to my neighbor. Why?”

“Nothing. Which house is yours?”

“Right there.” She pointed.

Sara picked up her pace. “Good. Let’s get inside. Then you two need to pack some things.”

“I think we should talk to Frank first.”

“There’s no time. I told you.”

“There’s always time.”

Margaret opened the door and called for Frank. He came out of the kitchen, taking a bite of a sandwich.

“Hey, Darlin’. Sara. A pleasant surprise, but you’re looking a bit…sweaty. Everything okay?”

“I’d feel a lot better explaining myself if we were somewhere else.”

“She’s had a rough day,” Margaret said. “I’ll tell you what, Sara.” Taking her hand, Margaret led down the hall. “How about we take you to your place so you can get cleaned up, then we can talk about what’s bothering you.”

“We can’t. That’s why I need to make sure you guys are safe. I have no home.”

“You may not feel like it’s your home, but it’s the place you’ve been living while you’ve been here.”

“No. It’s gone. They burned it. I was living in a houseboat, and they burned it.”

“You mean for real?” Frank said.

“Yes.”

“When?”

“Today.”

Frank gave Margaret a look, and her chest heaved as she took a deep breath. “You believe someone burned your house down?”

“I don’t just believe it, I saw it. It’s a fact. It is no more.”

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