Damon's POV
The ride back from Claire's godmother's sister was eerily quiet. Orson stared blankly out the window, his face a mask of shock and betrayal. What we had just learned was beyond disturbing – a web of deceit so intricate that it had remained hidden for decades. I had seen many despicable plots in my career as a detective, but this one topped them all in its calculated cruelty.
I checked my phone repeatedly during the journey, hoping for a message from Inspector Seth about Maya's whereabouts. Nothing. Not even the faintest lead. My chest tightened with each passing mile.
When we finally arrived at Cole's house, he rushed to the door before we'd even stepped out of the car.
"Dad! Damon! Any news?" Desperation etched his features as he searched our faces for hope.
I shook my head as I sank into the nearest chair. "Nothing concrete on Maya yet, Cole. The conversation was... illuminating, but it didn't lead us to her."
