Chapter 31: Nora’s Phone

Days later, the search party has found few traces of Nora Monahan in the deep woods of Eastern Washington. On the fourth day, an officer reports a possible lead. He stakes a yellow flag by the banks of a stream winding into the wintry wilderness where he located what looks to be Nora’s phone. It’s low on battery but still works.

One quick look at the screen reveals a photo of two girls in their teens. Both Nora and Shea smile widely up at the camera. Shea’s arm is wrapped around Nora’s shoulders and Nora holds an autographed Washington State Fair program. In the background the lights of the Ferris wheel glow.

When interviewed, Ms. Davison does not recall taking the photo, but acknowledges she signed over a hundred autographs that night.

The last text message received is communication from Helen Humbolt, believed to be the missing girl’s sister. Nora, I love you. Whatever’s happened, we’ll work through it together. On my way. This message was left unread.

Other notifications highlight the live video that Nora posted from Shea’s channel days before—the video now considered evidence.

With more than four million likes in less than a week, it’s Shea Davison’s most popular post by far.