Molly recalled what Abby had told her – about getting lost and separated from her sister at a young age. So of course the idea of her family missing would be especially upsetting to Abby. But Abby was right, it was odd that Thomas would keep Bridget out this late. “No, I’m sorry. I haven’t seen them…. I suppose it’s possible that they found something – maybe some music that they’re listening too?”
Registering the cloak and what Abby said about looking for them in town, Molly grew even more concerned. “You went out by yourself to look for them.” It was a statement; she didn’t mean to lecture Abby, but going out alone at this time of night was not a good idea. There was only a hint of disapproval in her voice when Molly spoke. “Abby, if you’re going to go out, you should at least tell someone. Getting lost yourself doesn’t help anything. Taking someone with you would be even better.” If Abby went out alone, she could miss Thomas coming back. And then Thomas would have to go out looking for Abby and it would all start again. Hoping she could find some reasonable explanation for why the two were still gone, Molly asked, “Where did you look? Do you know if there’s anything going on tonight that would keep them this late?”