“We are friends of Meret,” Lisa said quickly, glancing at Bruce when she noticed his hesitation. His silence stretched for too long, and she could tell he wasn’t sure how much they should reveal. But she didn’t want to risk losing the woman’s trust — or the only lead they’d had

“We are Meret’s friends,” she repeated, her tone steadier this time. “We attended the same high school. It’s been a while since we last saw her, and every attempt to reach her has led ...