Gabi watched Michael leave the Hell Corporation office before she relaxed her smile. She heard the lift ding to their level and the disembodied, recorded voice that announced, “Going...down,” before the doors slammed shut and it descended.
Mel appeared almost immediately on cue.
“How far off track is he?” Gabi asked, glancing around to make sure there was no one else in earshot.
Mel’s smile was rueful. “He has no idea. I helped a little – I told him Vanessa’s name, but I’m not sure he’s convinced that she’s not what he’s looking for.”
Gabi’s mouth tightened. “She’ll have to come to shore, to answer his questions, won’t she?”
Mel nodded. “I’ll contact her personally and explain the situation. She’s due ashore soon, anyway – she’ll be planning some extended shore leave next year.”
“Won’t it seem suspicious if she turns up, just as she’s needed?” Gabi asked.
“I doubt it. I said I’d put our field operatives on it. No one’s better at finding someone than a Hell Corporation field operative.” Mel smiled.
Gabi’s face was expressionless as she nodded slowly. “True. Except us.”
“Which is why I’ll take care of it,” Mel replied. She walked to the door that led to the office, before turning. “I should give him someone else to focus on, while I’m tracking down Vanessa.”
Gabi nodded again. “That might help.”
Mel carefully placed Michael’s data recorder on the reception desk. “He left this behind. When he comes back for it, find a way to suggest he check with the squash courts and martial arts school upstairs. That should keep him busy until I can bring Vanessa back.”
Gabi nodded, taking the recorder. Both heard the lift chime to their floor.
“I’d best be out of sight,” Mel said softly, quickly slipping through the office door.
Gabi summoned a smile as Michael returned to reception. Wordlessly, she held up the data recorder.
Michael’s worried expression turned to a relieved smile. “Oh, great. I was hoping I hadn’t lost it somewhere.” His hand closed over it, but Gabi didn’t let go.
“Mel mentioned that you might want to visit the fitness clubs upstairs – the squash courts or the martial arts school.” Gabi gave a decidedly vapid smile. “I’ve heard they’re both very good.” She relinquished the recorder.
Michael hesitated, then gave another smile. “Thanks,” was all he said as he hurried out.
YOU ARE READING
Going Down (Nightmares Prequel)
Mystery / Thriller“Find Al Himar. That’s one terrorist who’s going down!” After a dead terror suspect’s body is found, anti-terrorist operatives search her house. The only clue she left was a handwritten diary. Cryptic references to Al Himar and six people are all th...
