Abbie’s life was turned upside down when her husband, Matthew, disappeared without a trace, leaving behind only a cryptic note. Days passed in confusion and fear, and then a phone call from her mother-in-law revealed a devastating truth. Where was Matthew? And how could her world change so drastically?

“Matthew? This isn’t funny. Where are you?” I called out, expecting to hear his voice from another room.

But the house was eerily quiet, save for the soft hum of the refrigerator. My heart began to race as I spotted a note on the kitchen table. It simply read: “Don’t search for me.”

I stood frozen, hoping it was some twisted joke. Matthew had always loved pranks, but this felt different. I grabbed my phone and dialed his number, only for it to go straight to voicemail.“Matthew, call me back,” I said, trying to keep the panic out of my voice. “This isn’t funny.”