Richard

I can’t find Maya anywhere in the hotel. The only other place besides the park that I think she would go to is Simon’s place.

I take a deep breath and knock against his door. The light above me turns on before the door swings open, revealing Edz on the other side. She looks bright and cheery as always—like she gets her energy straight from the sun. I don’t know how my brother can stand it.

“Have you seen Maya?” I don’t bother with pleasantries.

“Umm, shouldn’t she be with you?”

I turn around and walk down the steps, not wanting to waste any more time.

“Hey! Wait!” Edz chases after me.

I speed up.

“Stop!”

I don’t.

The sound of flip-flops smacking against the ground makes me grind my teeth together. I ignore Edz calling after me, only to be stopped by my brother on his way back…