Gone

“Elaine, I’ve returned!” Gerard excitedly announced with groceries in hand. “You wouldn’t believe what they had at the marketplace today.” He shook his head with a smile and unloaded his goods onto the dining room table. He held up a small jar filled with a bright orange powder to the light. “Turmeric! Imported straight from India! Isn’t that something?” When Gerard did not hear Elaine’s mellifluous voice, he confusedly glanced around the first floor. 

“Elaine?” Gerard called, his voice becoming filled with concern. He determinedly marched to his study. Gerard’s throat tightened when he found the room empty. Quickly, he ascended the staircase. He briskly knocked once on the guest bedroom and allowed himself inside. 

Nothing. 

Gerard’s pulse beat loudly in his eardrums as he willed himself to take a few deep breaths. If she is not here, then that means—

Far away, a tolling bell sounded.