The Blame Game

Miss Grace's voice was laced with concern as she spoke to Emma over the phone.

"Emma, dear, I hope you're holding up okay. I know this must be a difficult time for you."

Emma's voice trembled as she replied, "I'm trying,

Miss Grace. But every minute feels like an eternity without Simon by my side."

Miss Grace's tone was soothing.

"I understand, dear. I really do. And I want you to know that I'm doing everything in my power to help find Simon. But I need to share something with you. Something that might be important."

Emma's curiosity was piqued. "What is it, Miss Grace? Please tell me."

Miss Grace hesitated, collecting her thoughts before speaking.

"Simon's friends came to me, Emma. They told me that Simon had confided in them about his father's mistress. And how she had been threatening him, repeatedly."

Emma's gasp was audible.

"What? That's terrible! Why didn't Simon tell me?"