Cole's POV 

As I clung to the eroding hope that there was an explanation for Amelia's absence, each chime on the clock was a hammer blow to my already jangled nerves. A stark inevitable reminder of how long she had been gone and how long I had been pacing and praying for her safe return.

I was completely disorganized. An anxious mess that is breathing, walking and on the verge of a panic attack. I was unable to concentrate, sit still or even think clearly outside of the constant gnawing ...