The comment hung in the air for a moment. Kate could see that the emotion on Annes face was real. Based on her expression, she could tell that girl would start crying soon. And if it came to that, Kate felt certain her parents would ask them to leave. It meant they likely didnt have much timeand that meant that Kate was going to have become a bit of a bully if she hoped to get some answers.

Anne, we want to get to the bottom of this. And, like you, we are working under the assumption that Mercy is still alive. But, if I can be honest with you, with missing persons cases, time is the enemy. The more time that passes, the smaller our chances of finding her become. So please…if there is anything you might have been reluctant to tell the local Deton authorities, its important that you tell us. I know in a town this small, you worry about what others will think and

I think thats enough, Mr. Pettus said. He got to his feet and walked toward the door. I dont appreciate you implying that our daughter has been hiding something. And you can look at her and tell that shes starting to get upset.

Mr. Pettus, DeMarco said. If Anne is

Weve been more than fair about letting her speak with the authorities, but were done here. Now, please…leave.

Kate and DeMarco shared a defeated look as they got to their feet. Kate made about three steps for the door before she was stopped by Annes voice.

No…wait.

All four adults in the room turned toward Anne. There were tears rolling down her cheeks and a stern kind of understanding in her eyes. She looked at her parents for a moment and then quickly away, as if ashamed.

What is it? Mrs. Pettus asked her daughter.

Mercy does have a boyfriend. Sort of. But its not Charlie. Its this other guy…and she never told anyone because if her parents found out, they would have gone nuts.

Who is it? Kate asked.

Its this guy that lives out near Deerfield. Hes older…seventeen.

And they were dating? DeMarco asked.

I dont think it was dating. They were sort of seeing each other. But when they got together, I think…well, I think it was just physical. Mercy liked it because there was this older guy giving her attention, you know?

And why would her parents not approve? Kate asked.

Well, the age thing for one. Mercy is fifteen and this guy is almost eighteen. But hes sort of bad news. He dropped out of high school, runs with a rough crowd.

Do you know if the relationship was sexual? Kate asked.

She never told me. But I think it might have been because whenever I would joke with her and tease her about it, shed get all quiet.

Anne, Mr. Pettus said. Why did you not tell the police?