Frankly Speaking - A Frank Rozzani Detective Novel (#1) Page 10

Frank took down Missy's contact information and thanked Travis again. With Travis digging up what he could on Worthington, Frank decided to call Melissa Bullock to see if Maggie had reached out to her.

  When Frank dialed the number, a sweet, girlish voice answered the phone saying, "Savannah Decor and Party Planning, how may I help you?"

  Frank explained who he was and like Travis, Missy's parents had brought her up to speed with what they knew. Frank asked her if Maggie had contacted her. There was a long pause after this question.

  Then, finally, "Mr. Rozzani, I feel awful about this, but, yes, she called me for advice. At first, I thought it was an innocent thing. She is so naive and sheltered for a girl her age. I almost envy her. I wasn't shy or innocent at that age. Then, when she started telling me the details I started to worry about her. It sounded like he was older, as in 18 or older. Only later, when she told me she was pregnant, did I realize how serious her situation was. She seemed really happy when she told me. She said I was the first person who knew. She said she was going to tell the father that night and that he was going to be as happy as she was. I tried to be happy for her, but I was worried. I didn't know anything about the father and couldn't shake the feeling that there was more to it. The next day, my dad called me to tell me Maggie was missing, and that the police thought she was a runaway. I couldn't bring myself to tell dad that I might know why. I have been such a disappointment to my parents that this would have been one more black mark on my record. I thought that maybe she had run away to get married or even to see me if telling the father went badly. I hope I didn't put her in more danger by not telling my parents what I knew."

  "I don't think you did, Ms. Bullock, but I'm glad you told me. I will not share our conversation with your parents, but you may want to consider doing so. If you hear from Maggie, please contact me right away."

  "I will, and thank you," she said nearly breaking down.

  "Why are you thanking me?" Frank asked.

  "For listening and not judging me," she said.

  "I am hardly one to judge how people handle situations like this, Ms. Bullock."

  They said their goodbyes and Frank looked at the time and realized it was time to pick up some real food for his canine companion and deliver it to her.

  CHAPTER NINE