Mike's Disappearance

The elevator doors slide open, and I step into the office, my mind still on Princess Paws and her new cat tower. The usual morning buzz fills the air—phones ringing, keyboards clacking, coffee machines gurgling (I have no idea if it's actually gurgling, but the smell's there).

Despite how normal everything is… Something's off.

Heads turn as I walk past. Whispers follow in my wake. A prickle of unease crawls up my spine.

I reach my cubicle and set my purse down, frowning at the sudden hush that's fallen over the room. When I look up, a sea of eyes dart away, suddenly fascinated by computer screens and coffee mugs.

"Hey, Nicole."

I turn to find Jake, another consultant, hovering nearby, looking concerned. "Have you heard from Mike?"

My stomach does an uncomfortable flip. "No, why?"