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Sheriff Jeffries sat on the corner of his desk, two men I didn’t know standing near him, hands in their pockets. The conversation stopped when he stood and looked my way. The moment I saw his face, my mad dissolved into terror. “I need help.” In two strides he stood before me, his lips pressed into a tight line, concern visible in his eyes. He laid gentle hands on my shoulders. “What’s wrong?” “We can’t find James anywhere. We’ve been searching all morning.” Desperation streaked each word. Dan hid himself behind my skirt. Ollie and Janie both began to cry. I wanted to join them, but I forced myself to calm. He nodded once. “Come with me.” He took my hand and led us to Mr. Crenshaw’s store.
”
”