Then he told me how to reach the appropriate investigators immediately and helped ensure the information entered the proper process.

Our connection could get the concern heard promptly.

It could not replace the investigation, authorize a raid, or allow me to decide what the evidence proved.

I understood that.

I told him I intended to speak with Douglas Vance because his trust appeared in the transaction and he might know where Rachel was.

He cautioned me not to confront anyone in a way that put Ethan or me at risk, and to contact emergency services immediately if danger developed.

I did not assume that Douglas’s surname made him related to the detective.