187. The Last Chance

Michael's POV -

Pain pulses through my body as we speed through the city streets, my thoughts consumed by one burning question: where is Abby? I've tried calling her countless times, my desperation growing with each unanswered ring. It's as if she's vanished into thin air, leaving me with a deep sense of emptiness.

In my desperation, I dial my father's number. "Dad," I say urgently, "I need you to call Abby and keep the line open for at least 30 seconds. We can trace her location that way."

The seconds feel like hours as I wait for my father's call back. Every passing moment is a torment, and I can't bear the thought of Abby slipping further away from me.

Finally, my father's name flashes on my screen, and I answer with bated breath. "Dad, did you—"

But his words cut me off. "She hung up, Mick," he says with a heavy sigh. "And she sent a message, saying she'll talk to you when she returns to California."

My heart sinks as I hear those words. I wanted to see her, to hold her, to beg for