“And you called 9-1-1,” I prompted Fern.
“We’re not supposed to be alone,” Fern said softly. “And Grandma didn’t want to go. She said she would go but I don’t think she wanted to. She likes to be with us.”
“You did so good,” I said, as if lavishing praise would make all of this better. My mom was missing with some maniac who knew Mikhail. “You did exactly what you were supposed to do. Are you okay? Are you hungry? Are you sleepy? Do you want to watch The Wizard of Oz?”
My children just blinked at me until I realized I’d peppered them with too many questions.
“Okay, I’m going to order pizza,” I said. “And then I need to call Misha.”
“Ma’am, we’ll take care of the pizza,” the officer said. “And we’d love to teach your kids how to work the lights and sirens on the squad cars.” The triplets brightened immensely. “Make your phone call. Time is of the essence, I think.”
“Thank you,” I breathed out. I was panicking. I wasn’t thinking straight.
I had to call Mikhail.
“Misha,” I sobbed out as soon as the call connected, cutting off whatever he was saying on the other end of the line.
“Sadie? What’s wrong?”
“I need…” I had no idea what I needed, or why I was calling him.
“I’m on my way, malysh.”
I was in full-on panic mode, but his voice was sure and confident. It made me feel better instantly, even if I didn’t know where to turn.
If anyone could help in this situation, it would be Mikhail.