Some people take photos with their phones, post them online, or casually mention things in chats—any of these can end up in the big data systems. But if someone leaves no digital footprint, no matter how advanced the platform, there’s no way to track them down.
Jessica had never done anything like that, so naturally, there was nothing about her in the data. She was reserved, didn’t talk much, and her family was gone—no one was around to let her secrets slip.
As for the birthmark, probably only she and Timothy knew about it.
But the ages didn’t match up, so Timothy had already ruled Jessica out.
He reminded Vince, “You can’t rely on big data to find everyone. Don’t put all your hope in those numbers. If there’s another way, it’s worth a try.”
Everyone knew it was like looking for a needle in a haystack.
If Vince’s younger sister remembered her childhood, or if she realized as an adult that her family wasn’t her biological one and came looking for her relatives, maybe it’d be easier. But after all these years with no news, that possibility was slim.
And that was the optimistic view. If you considered the worst—that she might not even be alive anymore—finding her would be impossible.
A server arrived with their meals, signaling it was time to eat.
Meanwhile, Jessica and Marquis had just about finished their discussion. Jessica had typed up all the relevant events on her laptop; she could provide some evidence herself, but for other parts, the lawyer would have to collect it.
“Ms. Greene, leave the rest of the evidence gathering to me. If you’re planning to go abroad, you can do so without worry. I’ll notify you well in advance once the court date is set.”
There was quite a bit to collect.
For example, the school security guards and the hospital nurses—both considered Sheila to be Timothy’s wife and Henry’s mother. Solid proof.
Then there were hotel records; with a bit of effort, they could retrieve the booking history. It wasn’t just once, either.
Comments
The readers' comments on the novel: Goodbye, Mr. Regret