My 13-year-old daughter was having a sleepover at her best friend’s house – Then the friend’s mom texted me: “Jordan hasn’t been here in weeks”

I am 40 years old and my daughter Jordan is 13 years old.

She’s always had the same best friend: Alyssa. I know Alyssa’s mom, Tessa. We’re not really the type to “share our secrets,” but we’ve had enough birthday parties and carpools together for her to trust her.

I was cautious the first month.

So when Jordan started asking to stay over at Alyssa’s house more often, I didn’t think much of it.

Once a month it became every other weekend.

Then it became a routine. On Friday afternoon, I would see the backpack being taken out.

“Did you ask Tessa?” he asked her.

After a while, it seemed automatic.

“Yes, Mom,” she sighed. “She said she was fine.”

The first month I was careful. I would send him a message:

“Jordan is on his way! ”

Tessa replied:

“Everything’s fine!” or “Okay!”

Then what happened last Tuesday occurred.

After a while, it seemed automatic. Safe. Normal.

So I stopped sending text messages every time.

I just did the mom script at the door.

“Behave yourself. Be respectful. Send me a message if you need me.”

“Mom, stop,” she said. “I know.”

Then what happened last Tuesday occurred.

Ten minutes later, my phone buzzed.

Jordan came out with his travel bag, headphones on, shouting “I love you!” over his shoulder.

I was loading the dishwasher when I remembered my birthday was coming up. I thought I’d invite a couple of friends over. Maybe Tessa too, since she was basically my daughter’s weekend housekeeper.

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