THE VICKERS

Chapter 4

I couldn't wait any longer. Devin had been gone for almost an hour and he hadn't called.

I didn't know if he met Marcus, if he was taken or if he was dead. I shook my head trying to get rid of the undesirable thoughts.

He'll be back soon.

Another hour passed and Devin still hadn't returned. He could be in trouble. What was taking so long? I hope he didn't go do something stupid. 

I could see yellow and orange hues glowing over the horizon. Regardless of whether Devin came back, I couldn't stay here any longer. The police would start patrolling soon, looking for juveniles like me. I had to move.

I packed up our bags, securing the money Devin left with me in my socks. I'd be passing wanna be gangsters who preyed on teenagers like me. If Devin was here they wouldn't attempt anything, but I was alone.
I tried calling Devin again before I left, it rang without answer. 

After an hour of walking my back was hurting from the weight of both of our baggage. But it wasn't as heavy as the thoughts going through my head. I silently prayed that Devin wasn't out there making a grave mistake. I had my suspicions on who could take Dahlia, but it would be foolish to act on it without backup- without me.

I found myself before the North Berlington police station, the one were Marcus was working before he was suspended. The air around me was cool, yet to be warmed by the rising sun. Sweat beaded across my forehead and dripped into my bushy eyebrows. My arms glistened, giving my light brown complexion, a slight glow.

I still hadn't heard from Devin. The police would be looking for him, not me, I convinced myself. Could they have caught him? Did they know about Dahlia?

I paused at the entrance to the station and looked around. Maybe I should wait a little longer. The last thing I wanted to do was say something to incriminate my brother or Dahlia.

I stood there for a few minutes, biting my lips and contemplating my next move. I knew Devin would be upset if he found out that I went to the police. But what was I supposed to do? He wasn't answering. Maybe I should go back to Charles Street. I made it halfway down the concrete steps before turning around and marching back to the entrance of the station.

Maybe I would see Marcus or just ask about any reported kidnappings, or suspicious black vans.
I timidly stepped into the outdated building, all of my faux confidence forgotten at the door. The hardwood floors creaked under my weight as I walked. The air inside was held hostage by the closed windows and screens, causing the atmosphere to feel stuffy. It seemed as if no one had time to open a window.

The only other person inside was an older lady, an officer, at the front desk. We were separated by a glass screen coated with dust, but I could still see her brilliant frown. She looked like the type of person who would be in a lot of physical pain if they tried to smile. 

Regardless, of her unwelcoming manner,  I managed a half smile. At the wooden counter, I set down my bags on the floor and leaned against the narrow ledge.

I didn't trust anyone in this town, not even the ones meant to serve and protect. Yet, here I was, hoping that this officer would feel inclined to help a minor out. Needless to say, my expectations were low.

"Hi I am looking for DC Nicholson"

"He ain't in yet," she said, then turned her attention to her computer. When I didn't move she looked up again and frowned even deeper.

"You need somethin' else?"

"Yea what can you tell me about Dahlia Vicker?"
She was well known in the force with her record of shoplifting. Plus, being with Marcus didn't help.