"My best friend, Clara, left my house close to dawn a few days ago so she could go to work. Usually she texts me throughout the day about the downers and trying to make plans so we both have something to look forward to..." I choked on the lump in my throat as I described the last time I saw my roommate to the officials. I had no idea where or how she was. "I knew there was something wrong when I kept texting her and she never replied." I broke down and started sobbing. I pressed my handkerchief against my eyes and cheeks. How could I stay strong when they were making me relive my horror?

"Miss Walter, we're looking for the people who did this to your parents and friend. But I have a few more questions if you would answer them. It would really help our investigation. It won't take but a minute more of your time." The agent- Angus, I think- who spoke was much taller than me and his hair was shaggy and brown. His partner was letting him do most of the talking. The glances they gave each other told of their closeness. The looks were almost brotherly.

I hesitated, "Alright."

"Did your parents or Clara have anyone angry at them? Anyone who would want revenge?"

"I- I don't think so," I tried hard to think with a clear head. I wanted to help them find me loved ones. "My mom works for the local vet, and my dad is a history professor at the junior college. We're Christians. We go to church. My parents do their best to show love to everyone they meet. Clara, my best friend, wants to be a marine biologist. She's always loved the science part of the ocean- what makes it work. I met her through the youth group at our church back during our freshman year of college. She wasn't one to make enemies."

"That's all very helpful, Gwynn. Have you noticed anyone taking an interest in your parents or Clara? Someone watching them or maybe following them?"

"Honestly, not really. They all seemed to vanish on the same day- I was at my parents' house when they left but they never came back, and Clara never told me she made it to work safely…" Again, I dissolved into sobs. "I'll never see them again," I whispered to myself.

Agent Angus looked gloomily at his partner. "Is there anywhere you can stay, Gwynn? Grandparents? Aunt?"

"No. My nearest family is in Wyoming."

"Not very near," Agent Young grumbled.

Agent Angus' face contorted as he thought of places where she could stay and of a reason to get her out of the house. "Can you stay at a motel until we find the people who did this? We don't think it's safe for you to stay here."

"Why?"

"Uh, we have reason to believe that your house is being watched."

"How much does a motel cost?"

"A few dollars a night and you'll need money for food. And extra clothes. In fact, it would be wise to leave now." The agents rose from the couch.

"Now?" I was trying to process this, but it wouldn't click in my mind.

"Now." Agent Young stated firmly.

I nodded distractedly and left the living room to go to my room down the hall. My thoughts were only half there when I started putting jeans and shirts in a duffle bag. I packed toiletries and extra money along with plenty of socks and two pairs of good work shoes. I made a mental checklist of things I might need and rapidly double checked my bag for the essentials. After twenty short minutes, I returned to the living room.

"Ready." I said with a reluctant smile. Who could possibly be happy during a time like this?

"Let's go then." Agent Young said as he went through the front door. Agent Angus gestured for me to follow and he brought up the rear.