Page 113 of Tristano

Now what?

I think back to the conversation I had with Vanessa. I wonder if she’s working today.

Before I can make a real plan, my phone rings. Picking it up, my breath catches when I see the name on the screen.

Uncle Ben.

“Hello?” I answer hesitantly.

“Hey, Serena. How are you doing?”

“I’m okay. Is there a reason you’re calling me?” I ask bluntly.

“Seriously? I raised you and you can’t even spare a phone call for me?” He sounds dejected.

I sigh. “You’re right. I’m sorry. I’m still adjusting.”

“It’s okay. Listen, I know it’s sudden, but I think you are onto something about these missing girls. I was wondering if you would come in and discuss it with me some more.”

A sudden smile covers my face. I don’t need his approval, but having it means the world to me.

“Yeah, when do you want to meet?”

“How about now? I can be at Goodie’s in fifteen,” he says, referencing the old diner we used to go to.

“Sure, but it’s going to take me a bit longer. I’m in Brooklyn.”

“Oh? Is that where you are living now?”

“Yep,” I answer cautiously.

“Good for you. I’ll wait as long as you need.”

Picking up the phone, I dial Tris.

“Hey,anima gemella.I’m in the middle of something. Can I call you back?” he answers, sounding distracted.

“Real quick, I’m going to head to Jersey City to meet up with Uncle Ben.”

“Serena, I don’t think it’s a good idea for you to go there alone.” He sounds so disapproving.

I can’t let him dictate my life though. “He’s my uncle. He wants to talk…”

I was going to tell him he wants to talk about the case, but then I realize they might not want me sharing information with him. I get why, but I think it’s important we have all the eyes we can out there. So instead of telling him, I let it trail off.

“He doesn’t treat you right. I don’t want him steamrolling you,” Tris admits.

“I know. I’ll be okay. It’s just lunch. We are meeting at Goodie’s. I’ll text you when I get there and when I leave.”

“Fine, but take my second car. It’s in the garage. The keys are already in it.”

“Are you sure?” I bite my lip.

“I don’t want you going down there on public transport. Take the car.”

“Okay. Hey Tris?”

“What?”

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