Bump.
I was just about to start screaming and ruin the whole plan but stopped myself when I felt the vehicle come to a slow stop.
I stopped myself from flailing my arms out and crying in glee. I really wanted to kiss the ground and probably would have if someone would let me out.
I heard doors opening, then some voices coming nearer.
Then suddenly, without warning, the suitcase that I was currently in was flung into the air and I had to bite down on my tongue to stop a scream at the sudden loss of gravity.
The suitcase fell painfully down and hit against this dead man’s leg as he grumbled. What did you ladies pack ? We’re only here for one night. I recognized Ryland’s voice through the suitcase.
Well that’s offensive…
Oh, here. Let me grab that for you. I heard Landon’s voice speak up from nearby and sighed in relief.
I felt myself being swung forward and heard Landon let out a grunt as he caught the suitcase.
There was a pause of silence and I had no clue what was happening, but it seemed tense.
Can we go now ? I’d really appreciate it if I could see my sister. Nathan finally cut in, breaking the silence.
I heard Ryland start to say something, but he was cut off by a phone ringing.
The next part of the plan was now activated…
What ? I heard Ryland snap into his phone as he answered.
There was a small pause and I heard Ryland suck in a breath, before going all ballistic on whoever had to explain to Ryland that I had disappeared.
What the hell do you mean she’s gone !? She’s just a pathetic lightweight teenage girl ! How could you fools let her escape !? I want every man searching the whole apartment. I want them to search the whole town for her. I want you to hack into any surveillance cameras nearby. And don’t let the little boy out of your sight. Am I clear ? Alvin’s chipmunk squeak was for the first time not present in his tone when he spoke.
I heard some shuffling, before he spoke up again. You. Did you know anything about this ? Ryland suddenly asked at who I assumed was to Nathan.
No. I made sure she was locked in her room and threatened her into staying. Nathan easily lied.
There was a small pause, then I heard Ryland curse.
Tell you what. You go see your beloved sister and stay here until I get back. It should take under a couple of hours to find her. Try anything funny and my men won’t hesitate to hurt you or your sister. Ryland ordered.
You have my word. Was all Nathan said.
Then, I heard Ryland’s small feet skittering off in a hurry as he left.
I was about to sigh in relief, but then Ryland stopped and spoke up again.
One of you. Come with me. I guessed he was talking to Landon, Max and Tyler.
Toast.
Um, actually I think I’ll keep these guys under my supervision. I’ll need them to get in anyways. Nathan quickly covered up.
I know. I just need one. I can’t go alone. Ryland said in a duh tone.
I felt the air grow intensely silent as everyone became suddenly unsure what to do. We were not expecting this.
The sound of a vehicle coming towards us saved the day suddenly.
Nathan, who is that ? Ryland asked Nathan with a hint of fear in his voice.
Hah ! Not so brave without all your henchmen are you ?
I heard the vehicle come to a stop, before two doors opened and slammed shut.
What are you boys doing here ? Ryland asked immediately, the fear leaving his voice at once.
Johnathan sent us here earlier for duty and we just heard the news. I recognized Austin’s voice at once and a grin took over my face. He had decided to come !
What ? Why would he do that ? Ryland asked in a confused tone, silence ensuing. That Johnathan must be on that Mary Jane stuff. I gotta get better staff. Useless is what you all are. He added with a grunt after.
I felt the tension leave the air instantly and held back a laugh.
He said that one of us could escort you back to the apartment. I think we may have a lead to the girl’s whereabouts. This time I recognized Cody’s voice and was shocked, yet glad. I had been certain he had wanted nothing to do with this. Austin must have convinced him into this.
Oh. Was all Ryland said. Well then let’s go. One of you come with me, the other, keep an eye on Nathan. Ryland ordered.
I heard Nathan scoff at this.